Ever find a cafe that is so nice you don't want to leave? You've finished your brekky, read the paper back-to-front and you're even contemplating a third latte just so you can stay a little longer. Well, at Wild Sage's new Barangaroo cafe, you won't be rushed out the door. Open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner — with a new dinner menu coming soon — it's set to be a space for lingering over lunch or turning an afternoon coffee into after-work drinks. The new eatery is a sibling to the Cammeray cafe of the same name. Moving across the bridge to take up residence in The Streets of Barangaroo, Wild Sage number two shares the original's all-day dining ethos, with a focus on after-work drinks for professionals in the area. The menu stretches from crunchy corn flake-covered brioche French toast for breakfast, through to lunch, which includes favourites such as the braised beef sandwich and the glazed pork belly lollypop with zucchini ribbon and sesame seeds. But it's the evening where things get interesting, with a menu of share plates, ideal for after-work groups. A real focus has been put on the drinks menu too, with an extensive beverage menu now boasting over 60 wines, 20-plus traditional cocktails, as well as a big selection of beers and spirits. It's another offering to add to the slew of after-work venues down by the water at Barangaroo, like Banksii, Belles Hot Chicken and 12-Micron. Wild Sage is located at Exchange Place, 3 Sussex Street, Barangaroo, and is open from 7am till 11pm seven days a week. For more information, visit wildsage.com.au/barangaroo.
If you were looking forward to diggin' on the best-selling American female group in history at their latest Australia and New Zealand live shows this February and March, we come bearing bad news: TLC's Down Under tour has been cancelled. After The Weeknd postponed his 2023 gigs, then The Kid LAROI did the same with his planned early 2024 concerts, it's been a chaotic time for big-name live music shows. TLC made the announcement via social media, advising that scrapping their trip came "due to unforeseen circumstances". Tionne 'T-Boz' Watkins and Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas were heading this way to mark the 30th anniversary of their smash-hit second studio album CrazySexyCool, returning two years after headlining Fridayz Live in Australia (but dropping out of Friday Jams in Aotearoa due to a COVID-19 case among their touring party). And TLC weren't just coming alone, with Busta Rhymes and En Vogue slated to be on supporting duties. "To our incredible Australian and New Zealand fans, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the cancellation of our upcoming tour. We sincerely apologise for any disappointment to our fans," T-Boz and Chilli posted online. "Your support means everything, and we promise to make it up to you. We can't wait to be back in your beautiful countries soon. Thank you for your understanding and love," the statement continued. CrazySexyCool gave the world 'Creep', 'Waterfalls', 'Diggin' on You' and 'Red Light Special', among other tracks, but the 1994 diamond-certified album wasn't set to be the only source of songs for TLC's 2024 shows thanks to the likes of 'No Scrubs' and 'Unpretty'. And, each gig was going to be a 90s-themed party, with 90s fashion, fan interaction and a few surprises. TLC, Busta Rhymes and En Vogue were heading to Trusts Arena Auckland, Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Brisbane Entertainment Centre and RAC Arena in Perth. Ticketholders will receive automatic refunds via their payment method. TLC 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF 'CRAZYSEXYCOOL' AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR 2024 DATES — ALL CANCELLED: Thursday, February 29 — Trusts Arena, Auckland — CANCELLED Saturday, March 2 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne — CANCELLED Sunday, March 3 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide — CANCELLED Tuesday, March 5 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney — CANCELLED Thursday, March 7 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane — CANCELLED Saturday, March 9 — RAC Arena, Perth — CANCELLED TLC's 30th-anniversary CrazySexyCool tour is no longer going ahead Down Under in February and March 2024. Ticketholders will receive automatic refunds via their payment method.
Open Marrickville is a brand spanking new Council event, organised by the community, endeavouring to unlock communal and cultural creativity and talent. The event spans 10 days each one full of storytelling, music, dance, art, theatre, food and collating multiculturalism’s stories and celebrations through a series of mini cultural festivals. Kicking the affair off is Welcome, an event by Marrickville Metro Migrant Resource Centre. Highlights of the festival include an Open Day at the Portuguese Ethnographic Museum on 1 July, ‘Shot!’ the open Marrickville short film festival at Urchin Books on June 27 and 28 and (dis)position: Cigdem Aydemir's Chrissie Cotter Gallery show. Read the full program here. Royal Exchange roof photo by Newtown Graffiti.
Since opening its first shop in Taiwan in 2006, Gong Cha has already grown to 1500 stores globally. And, because that's clearly not enough, the brand also operates the first boba tea shop at sea. Gong Cha's luxury cruise liner — dubbed the Majestic Princess — sails all around the world, from Alaska and Europe to Tahiti and the Panama Canal. It also offers guests 15 different teas to choose from, including a trio exclusive to the cruise. If you'd rather get your Gong Cha fix on land, you can choose from a whopping 36 stores in Sydney, stretching from Campbelltown to Castle Hill to Penrith and everywhere in between. It's a big menu, so newbies should go for one of the top ten — which includes milk tea with pearls, mango and jellies, matcha red bean and milk foam green tea. Plus more unusual items like rosella plum tea with white pearls and lemon-roasted melon with basil seeds.
Whether you're a big nature nerd or err on the indifferent side to the science of it all, chances are you've seen at least some of Sir David Attenborough's Planet Earth. The BBC nature documentary series — narrated by the man himself and accompanied by an epic score from Hans Zimmer — first aired back in 2006, and its follow-up second season, Planet Earth II, was released just two years ago. But the bits you've seen on TV or YouTube are sure to be belittled when the live show comes to Australia this April. Like the performances of Harry Potter and Star Wars we've seen in recent months, Planet Earth II Live in Concert will see the documentary screened in all its glory accompanied by a live orchestra. And it's a big sore. The music has been composed by none other than Hans Zimmer (responsible for epics like The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight Rises and Inception) alongside Jacob Shea and Jasha Klebe. In Sydney, the score will be performed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the ICC with conductor Vanessa Scammell and, in lieu of Attenborough, Eric Bana will be narrating in real time.
Step inside Blak Box, a sound pavilion currently stationed in Blacktown, and you'll be carried into a world of First Peoples' stories. Spoken word, music and field recordings combine to create a stream of consciousness that expresses experiences of the land — from the past, the present and the future. The installation is the creation of Urban Theatre Projects, who commissioned architect Kevin O'Brien to design the immersive pavilion. It first popped up in Barangaroo last year, and has made a return for Sydney Festival. Lighting is kept to a minimum, encouraging "deep listening", a concept that invites you to pay attention, not only to the stories, but also to the silences and spaces between them. Radio National presenter Daniel Browning curated the audio. His selections include 15 commissioned sound pieces, oral histories of Barangaroo before 1788, informal interviews and spoken word performances. The installation's latest incarnation includes dialogue from Elders Uncle Wes Marne and Aunty Edna Watson, and music from Emma Donovan and violinist Eric Avery. It's been described as a "21st century campfire". "BLAK BOX is one of our most ambitious projects to date – bringing together design, installation and sound for a unique contemporary storytelling experience," said Rosie Dennis, artistic director at Urban Theatre Projects. "Daniel has curated an intelligent, layered and thought-provoking program which grapples with the complexity of urban development, place and history." BLAK BOX will be at Blacktown Showgrounds until February 2. Performances happen each night at 6pm and 7.15pm and tickets are $35.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chargrill Charlie's has been helping out impacted restaurants and chefs through its Local Flavours initiative. As well as selling chef Sam Young's dumplings and Kepos Street Kitchen's popular Israeli dishes, the chargrilled chook chain teamed up with pink-haired pastry chef Anna Polyviou to sell her super-chocolatey cookie dough. And sell it did — a whole two tonnes of it, to be exact. So, they're bringing it back to the streets of Sydney, quite literally. Instead of just selling buckets of the dough, Charlie's is rolling out a cookie dough van for one day. It'll travel across Sydney, following the path of Chargrill Charlie's 13 Sydney stores from east to north, kicking off at 9am and finishing around 5.30pm. Keep an ear out for the van — it'll be playing suitable ice cream van tunes — and you can snag brownie or fairy bread cookie dough in 600-gram tubs for $15 or whipped into soft serve for $5 a pop. If you miss the van, you can still try the dough. Chargrill Charlie's will be selling tubs at all of its stores and cookie dough thickshakes for $6.90 at Annandale, Dee Why, Drummoyne, Frenchs Forest, Rose Bay, St Ives and Wahroonga stores.
This year has seen Sydney's beaches closed for a multitude of reasons. Bondi temporarily shut when beachgoers flouted gathering restrictions back in March. Then beaches across the city closed as restrictions tightened. In May, an overboard shipping container saw Randwick City Council's beaches flooded with face masks and plastic containers. Now, on the Labour Day long weekend, another Sydney beach has closed — but it's got nothing to do with COVID-19. On Saturday, October 3, Murray Rose Pool (FKA Redleaf) was evacuated due to concerns about contaminated water. In a statement on social media, Woollahra Council said the beach would be closed for the rest of the long weekend "due to a sewage issue". Sydney Water expanded on the specifics of the issue in a statement to The Sydney Morning Herald, saying "A blockage in a public toilet wastewater line operated by Woollahra Municipal Council caused a wastewater overflow this morning in Double Bay." https://www.facebook.com/WhatsOnWaverley/photos/a.110321562354040/3596156633770498 Further east in Bronte, The Bogey Hole at the southern end of the beach was also closed on Saturday due to a sewage issue and will remain closed for the entire long weekend, according to a statement from Waverley Council. With the mercury hovering in the high 20s across the long weekend, some sandy spots across the city have reached capacity, too. NSW National Parks and Services started turning around cars at 9.33am when Wattamolla hit peak vehicle capacity and Camp Cove was full at 11.50am on Monday, October 5. When you do head to a beach, remember to follow NSW gathering limits and to practise social-distancing when possible. You can check out all the current COVID-19 restrictions over here. Murray Rose Pool (Redleaf) and The Bogey Hole at Bronte Beach will remain closed for the rest of the long weekend. Image: Flickr
If you're the type of traveller who chooses their hotels for the perks and extra inclusions, then you might want to put Tasmania's newest place to stay on your radar. Mövenpick Hotel Hobart marks the Swiss brand's first site in Australia — and if either the chain's name or its country of origin have you thinking of sweet treats, yes, they're part of the hotel's offering. Between 4–5pm daily, Mövenpick Hotel Hobart celebrates chocolate hour. That's when you'll receive a free dessert — such as an eclair, brownie or truffle — when you purchase a chocolate-flavoured cocktail, mocktail or affogato. If you fancy tucking into something sweet at another time of day, you'll also be able to book in for a chocolate-tasting package. And, Mövenpick's hotels serve the brand's line of food and beverages, which means that Mövenpick ice cream is on the menu as well. One of more than 80 of the chain's sites worldwide, Mövenpick Hotel Hobart also boasts 221 guest rooms across levels three to 18 — because you need somewhere to enjoy its sweets. Located near the city's waterfront, the venue has been decked out with nature design-inspired interiors that take inspiration from Tasmania, with Jaws Architects doing the honours. Think: wall panelling, furniture, fabrics and colours that have all been selected to the local landscape. For guests in the mood for more than just chocolate, cocktails and ice cream, the hotel is home to Tesoro Modern Italian restaurant, and also has a big focus on nutritious breakfasts. You can start your day with a shot of juice or yoghurt blended with fresh fruit and vegetables, or with other health-focused dishes. Facilities-wise, there's also a function space that can cater for up to 100 people and a gym — and, inside some guest rooms, you'll be treated to panoramic views over Hobart, too. Find Mövenpick Hotel Hobart at 28 Elizabeth Street, Hobart — and head to the chain's website for bookings and other information.
Tony McNamara's new play The Grenade is well paced, competently acted and funny at times, but it's hard to get too excited about a show so keen to diffuse its own narrative tension. Ostensibly about the paranoia that ensues when political analyst and family man Busby McTavish (Gary McDonald) finds a hand grenade left in his living room, The Grenade never makes any bones about its true focus: McTavish's angst over the potential sexual awakenings of his wife and daughter. And in that respect, the basic setup is pretty compelling. Busby's first wife cheated on him repeatedly — a humiliation the play goes to some lengths to emphasise — and his subsequent marriage to a ex-nun Sally (Belinda Bromilow) and encouragement of his teenage daughter's (Eloise Mignon) jaunt down the path of quirky, sexless nerddom both smack of pain repressed rather than healed. Enter suitors for both women and their evident reciprocity, and it seems like only a matter of time before something has to give and Busby explodes. Indeed, if the central metaphor somehow passes you by, there it is on the show's poster: McDonald's head superimposed on a shrapnel pineapple. However, despite establishing a central conflict ripe for exploring ideas of fidelity, betrayal and possessiveness, McNamara does almost nothing with the premise. It's not so much that Busby's paranoia is played for laughs (this is a farce, after all) but that those laughs are overwhelmingly lazy, throwaway gags that swamp any humour the show could extract from the concerns it has created for its characters. There is some incisive stuff about the minutiae of failed relationships and the consequences of desire — but it is immediately smoothed away with a thick layer of unrelated, inconsequential gags rather than building into something genuinely funny or cathartic. This kills what tension the play does build up, deflating its humour and robbing the audience of any investment in the characters. No-one's suggesting that theatre dealing with "weighty" themes has to itself be heavy going, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with inconsequential comedy, but putting the effort in to create an effective premise and not allowing it to play out comes across as somewhat wasteful in the end.
Since 2013, artist Meg Minkley has been painting and drawing her way through pain. Her ongoing art therapy project A Drawing A Day started as a means of dealing with having been raped while travelling in Mexico, and went on to help scores of other rape survivors. Its latest incarnation, which opens at 107 Projects on Wednesday, September 14, is a response to the loss of her "best friend and cousin" Sarah, who suddenly passed away in her sleep from diabetes at the age of 28. Titled Dear SarBear, the exhibition deals with grief, memory and dreams. On some of the works, Minkley collaborated with her four- and six-year old niece and nephew, Liam and Ava. So you can expect lots of colour, as well as portraits of pet flamingo, Gracie, who, Ava says, lives in the sky with Sarah. Minkley is also co-founder of FemFound, a non-profit organisation dedicated supporting survivors of rape. It was established with the help of a successful Pozible campaign, which raised more than $15,000 earlier this year. Running until Sunday, September 25, Dear SarBear is free to attend, but will also be raising funds and awareness for Juvenile Diabetes Australia.
Maybe you're a Sydneysider who just can't wait to be anywhere other than your own house for a night. Perhaps you're a Brisbanite in need of a staycation, or even a trip to Cairns. Whichever applies, once you've had both of your COVID-19 vaccinations, you'll score a little something extra during your next evening away — as long as you make a date with the Crystalbrook Collection hotel chain. The independent hospitality company has announced a new deal for fully vaxxed guests, with everyone that's received both jabs nabbing free room upgrades. So, your night away from your own bed will be a little bit more luxe, all without paying extra. The special is applicable until Monday, December 20, 2021, too, which will hopefully mean that Sydney will be out of lockdown and will have surpassed the 70-percent vaccination threshold — and that the New South Wales Government will have started loosening restrictions for jabbed folks. You do need to book online by Sunday, October 31, however, and be fully vaxxed when you make your reservation. Also, you'll need to show your Australian Government COVID-19 vaccination certificate when you arrive. Wondering where to start dreaming about spending an evening? In NSW, Crystalbrook Collection's hotel lineup includes Crystalbrook Albion in Sydney, Crystalbrook Byron in Byron Bay and Crystalbrook Kingsley in Newcastle. In Queensland, there's Crystalbrook Vincent in Brisbane, and Crystalbrook Riley, Crystalbrook Bailey and Crystalbrook Flynn in Cairns. "The effects of ongoing lockdowns have been devastating to hotels, restaurants and bars, and to the people that work within these industries," said Crystalbrook Collection CEO Geoff York, announcing the deal. "Vaccination is the key to saving our industry. Offering an upgrade to guests who have vaccinated themselves against COVID-19 is a small gesture of thanks so that we can revive travel and hospitality," he continued. Crystalbrook Collection joins an ever-growing list of companies offering vaxxed Aussies incentives to help encourage more folks to get their jabs — and to reward those who already have — including in the travel space. Qantas is handing out frequent flyer points and discounts to fully vaccinated Australians, for example, and Virgin Australia has announced that it'll launch its own set of initiatives, too. Crystalbrook Collection's free room upgrades for fully vaccinated guests are available for stays before Monday, December 20, with booking required by Sunday, October 31. For more information, head to the hotel chain's website.
It's not every artist who'd revisit their Year Two saxophone skills on their debut album. But Melbourne's Chet Faker (aka Nick Murphy) isn't afraid of giving anything a whirl for the sake of sound. Following the release of his debut EP Thinking In Textures via Downtown Records in 2012, Murphy gained international high-fives and 'Breakthrough Artist of the Year' at the Australian Independent Records Awards, made an EP with Flume, toured with Bonobo, played at South by South West and scored a Super Bowl ad with his breakthrough cover of Blackstreet's 'No Diggity'. After settling into his own snuggly studio space in North Melbourne, Murphy painstakingly tweaked, experimented and self-produced his debut album Built On Glass. An eclectic and unpredictable mix of electronic soul ballads, deep house journeys and hip hop beats, Murphy's love of experimentation and letting sound breathe makes Built On Glass one of the year's most overwhelmingly confident debut releases. Heartbreakingly honest lyrics, minimalist electronic groovery and Murphy's unmistakably soulful vocals make for serious repeat button action. Kicking off a huge worldwide tour in April, Chet Faker will hit venues in UK, US and Canada for a gargantuan string of dates before heading home for his national Australian headliner tour; stopping at the Enmore Theatre on June 26, 27 and 29. Supporting is New Zealand dream pop trio Yumi Zouma, whose four-track EP The Brae saw the Christchurch locals gain quite the following on Soundcloud. Head here for our chats with Chet Faker about his upcoming worldwide debut album tour, jogging on the road and his genuine disdain for pigeonholes. https://youtube.com/watch?v=aP_-P_BS6KY
Steak connoisseurs, all your Christmases have arrived at once with the launch of Bistecca. The new CBD restaurant's menu is built around a single cut of steak: bistecca alla Fiorentina. Originating in Florence centuries ago, it's widely accepted as one of the finest cuts around. Designed by architecture firm Tom Mark Henry, the 50-seat basement restaurant has Italian flourishes throughout, with a marbled wine bar and yet-to-open adjoining wine shop. As you might've guessed, Bistecca is the creation of a couple of diehard Italophiles. Co-owners and lifelong friends, James Bradey and Warren Burns, travelled all over Italy in search of the ideal steak and the perfect red wine to match. Having decided on the bistecca alla Fiorentina, the duo returned home to find a premium local source, eventually landing on Black Angus cattle from NSW's Riverine region. "We tried at least 40 different steaks from different regions and farmers across Australia to settle on the right one," says Burns. "We chose the Riverine to deliver my holy trinity of meat: flavour, texture and supply." To complement your juicy steak, there's an array of hearty, traditional side dishes, including braised cannellini beans, garlic and rosemary potatoes, and Brussels sprouts with pecorino and sour cream. And vegetarians, though you're probably quaking in your leather-free boots by now, we should let you know there are meat-free ricotta dumplings on the menu, too. While the food menu has only one thing on its mind, the wine list is quite the opposite with more than 300 drops to choose from. Similarly, the cocktail list is ripe with Italian classics like garibaldis and bellinis, and negronis are poured straight from the tap. And later in the year, you'll be able to head straight through to the connected 'enoteche' to take home your favourite drop of the evening. Bistecca is now open at 4 Bridge Street, Sydney. Enter via Dalley Street. Images: Dominic Loneragan
Maybe you've spent much of 2020 glued to the small screen, viewing your way through this year's lockdown periods. Perhaps, as cinemas have been reopening around the country, you've flocked to the big screen to get your movie fix. Either way, if you've been thinking and supporting local — as has been the trend all-round in 2020 — then you've had plenty of Australian films and television shows to watch. And, from this hectic year, the best of the bunch have just been singled out at the 2020 AACTA Awards. Previously called the AFI Awards, the AACTA Awards announced its nominees back at the beginning of November, then handed out its trophies on Monday, November 30. The accolades span multiple types of screen content, so a hefty number of local productions were vying for a gong — but there were two big winners, with one each in the film and TV fields. Just calling Babyteeth a teen cancer drama doesn't quite cover just how complex, nuanced and intimate the movie is, as AACTA members clearly agree. It was named Best Film, and also won Best Director (Shannon Murphy), Screenplay (Rita Kalnejais) Actor (Toby Wallace), Actress (Eliza Scanlen), Supporting Actor (Ben Mendelsohn ) and Supporting Actress (Essie Davis), from a total haul of nine awards. On the TV front, if you've watched miniseries Stateless this year, then you've seen the most-awarded television production of 2020. It received 13 gongs, including Best Telefeature or Mini Series, Best Lead Actor in a Television Drama (Fayssal Bazzi), Best Lead Actress in a Television Drama (Yvonne Strahovski), Best Guest or Supporting Actor in a Television Drama (Darren Gilshenan), Best Guest or Supporting Actress in a Television Drama (Cate Blanchett), Best Screenplay in Television (Elise McCredie) and Best Direction in a TV Drama or Comedy (Emma Freeman). Across both fields, other winners included Mystery Road (Best Drama Series), Upright (Best Comedy Series), Tim Minchin (Best Comedy Performer, for Upright), Standing Up For Sunny (Best Indie Film) and Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra (Best Documentary). Here's a rundown of the major nominations and winners — and you can check out the full list on the AACTA's website: AACTA NOMINEES 2020 FILM AWARDS: BEST FILM Babyteeth — WINNER H is for Happiness I Am Woman The Invisible Man True History of the Kelly Gang Relic BEST INDIE FILM A Boy Called Sailboat Hot Mess Koko: A Red Dog Story A Lion Returns Standing Up for Sunny — WINNER Unsound BEST DIRECTION Shannon Murphy, Babyteeth — WINNER John Sheedy, H is for Happiness Leigh Whannell, The Invisible Man Justin Kurzel, True History of the Kelly Gang Natalie Erika James, Relic BEST LEAD ACTOR George MacKay, True History of the Kelly Gang Sam Neill, Rams Richard Roxburgh, H is for Happiness Toby Wallace, Babyteeth — WINNER Hugo Weaving, Measure for Measure BEST LEAD ACTRESS Tilda Cobham-Hervey, I Am Woman Laura Gordon, Undertow Elisabeth Moss, The Invisible Man Lupita Nyong'o, Little Monsters Eliza Scanlen, Babyteeth — WINNER BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR Fayssal Bazzi, Measure for Measure Russell Crowe, True History of the Kelly Gang Aaron Jeffery, The Flood Ben Mendelsohn, Babyteeth — WINNER Wesley Patten, H is for Happiness BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS Emma Booth, H is for Happiness Essie Davis, Babyteeth — WINNER Bella Heathcote, Relic Deborah Mailman, H is for Happiness Doris Younane, Measure for Measure BEST SCREENPLAY Rita Kalnejais, Babyteeth — WINNER Abe Forsythe, Little Monsters Leigh Whannell, The Invisible Man Natalie Erika James and Christian White, Relic Shaun Grant, True History of the Kelly Gang BEST DOCUMENTARY Brazen Hussies Brock: Over the Top Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra — WINNER Slim & I Suzi Q TELEVISION AWARDS: BEST DRAMA SERIES Bloom Doctor Doctor Halixfax: Retribution The Heights Mystery Road — WINNER Wentworth BEST TELEFEATURE OR MINISERIES The Gloaming Hungry Ghosts Operation Buffalo The Secrets She Keeps Stateless — WINNER BEST COMEDY SERIES At Home Alone Together Black Comedy The Other Guy Rosehaven Upright — WINNER BEST LEAD ACTOR IN A TELEVISION DRAMA Fayssal Bazzi, Stateless — WINNER Bryan Brown, Bloom Jai Courtney, Stateless Ewen Leslie, Operation Buffalo Aaron Pedersen, Mystery Road BEST LEAD ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION DRAMA Jada Alberts, Mystery Road Rebecca Gibney, Halixfax: Retribution Asher Keddie, Stateless Pamela Rabe, Wentworth Yvonne Strahovski, Stateless — WINNER BEST COMEDY PERFORMER Milly Alcock, Upright Anne Edmonds, At Home Together Luke McGregor, Rosehaven Tim Minchin, Upright — WINNER Celia Pacquola, Rosehaven BEST GUEST OR SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A TELEVISION DRAMA Rob Collins, Mystery Road Darren Gilshenan, Stateless — WINNER Damon Herriman, The Commons Callan Mulvey, Mystery Road Ed Oxenbould, Bloom BEST GUEST OR SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION DRAMA Cate Blanchett, Stateless — WINNER Jacqueline McKenzie, Bloom Ngaire Pigram, Mystery Road Tasma Walton, Mystery Road Jacki Weaver, Bloom
To criticise a Tarantino film is an undertaking not without its share of reservation. Perhaps even trepidation. The first instinct is self-doubt: “Did I miss something? Was I simply in the wrong mood? Is three hours just the norm now?” After so many hits, there's an almost ‘infallibility’ to the man, a near reverential status through which both fans and critics dismiss any purported shortcomings as either misinterpretations or outright lunacy on your part. There’s no denying Tarantino’s talent – he’s a writer and director of extraordinary vision whose early films in particular command regular repeat viewing. But he is, ultimately, just a man. And men, and their movies, sometimes fall short of perfection. So, then, we come to The Hateful Eight, the opening titles of which declare it 'the 8th film by Quentin Tarantino’ (Kill Bill is counted as just one film for those playing at home). It’s also the second (though presumably not last) western from a director who recently said "you have to make at least three Westerns to call yourself a Western director. Anything else, you're just dabbling". Set in the unforgiving snowy mountains of Wyoming a few years after the Civil War, the film's a slow-burn thriller played out almost entirely in two tiny, cramped locations: a four-person stagecoach and an isolated cabin by the name of 'Minnie’s Haberdashery'. Cast-wise, many of the Tarantino regulars are there, along with a handful of newcomers. Kurt Russell leads the pack as John ‘the Hangman’ Ruth, a ridiculously moustachioed bounty hunter escorting wanted felon Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) to the gallows. Along the way they happen upon two additional passengers: fellow bounty hunter Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L Jackson) and the soon-to-be local Sheriff Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins). Tarantino’s opening dialogues have become iconic, and this one's so long it comprises the entire first two ‘chapters’ of The Hateful Eight, accounting for almost a full hour of the film. It’s not without its charms, but compared to the unrelenting tension of Inglorious Basterds, or the glorious bastardry of Reservoir Dogs, this feels overblown and indulgent. By far its most compelling character is also its least involved: Daisy, a feral, black-eyed murderess whose wry smile after having her nose broken offers more menace and mystery than the sixty minutes of material that surrounds it. The remainder of the film plays out at Minnie’s, and if nothing else it’s a masterclass in cinematography. Shot on Ultra Panavision 70mm film stock (last used fifty years ago on Khartoum), Tarantino captures astounding depth and detail within an almost impossibly small space. It’s here, too, where we discover the rest of the ‘eight’: the loner cowboy (Michael Madsen), the Confederate General (Bruce Dern), the dandy Hangman (Tim Roth) and the Mexican stablehand (Demian Bechir). Trapped by the blizzard outside that absolutely makes you feel cold, suspicions steadily compound until, inevitably, tensions boil over into a phenomenally violent conclusion. That’s no spoiler, by the way. It’s just Tarantino. There’s still a lot to like about The Hateful Eight. The performances are outstanding, the story’s engaging and it’s peppered with all the usual Tarantino easter eggs (Red Apple cigarettes, anyone?). The score, too, by veteran composer Ennio Morricone is terrific, so unsettling it almost deserves to be christened the ‘hateful ninth’. Like Django Unchained before it, race relations (or the lack thereof) underscore much of the movie's themes, representing a definite politicalisation for the director, whose script offers up lines such as “when n****** are scared, that's when white folks are safe”, later countered with “the only time black folks are safe is when white folks is disarmed”. Ultimately, though, length returns as the film’s principal failing. It’s so long that some cinemas are even showing it with a 12-minute intermission, and it's hard not to escape the feeling that a concerted edit down to 90 minutes would have robbed it of nothing whilst ensuring the wonderful 'slow burn' steered clear of 'sluggishness'. …unless I just missed something? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnRbXn4-Yis
These days, I don't let early morning sunshine lull me into a false sense of security. The above average rainfall we've been experiencing is probably due to weather phenomenon La Niña, and I know it's bound to bucket down at some point during the day. Inevitably, my sky-blue umbrella has become my new best friend and I skulk in bookshops to avoid spontaneous downpours. Advertisers in the Netherlands have discovered a way to make the most of a rainy day. Fresh Green Ads creates street campaigns with eco-friendly materials that are revealed with a spot of wet weather. Lasting up to 8 weeks, ads fade away when the puddles disappear. Rain Campaign is a form of Clean Advertising, and according to the company "an environmentally friendly way of advertising on the street. With a template and a high pressure water sprayer the advertising message is cleaned out of the dirt on the street or on a wall. The result is a contrast between the dirty street and the clean message." Sand, crop and water drop campaigns are other forms of Clean Advertising offered by Fresh Green Ads. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ZjruygIIk9k https://youtube.com/watch?v=BLdEoj43nkY [Via PSFK]
Krispy Kreme feels sorry for Sydney's Matt Corby fans after the popular Australian artist cancelled his two sold out Enmore Theatre gigs due to illness at the last minute. So sorry, in fact, that they're offering them a sweet something to cheer them up: free doughnuts. Yep, the original doughnut kings (empathetic as they are) are giving all ticket holders the chance to score a consolation doughnut, totally free of charge. This gig is simple: take a print-out of your ticket along to any of Sydney's Krispy Kreme stores before midnight tonight, Thursday, April 14, and you'll be handed a beacon of doughy goodness for nada. Why the Krispy Kreme kindness, you ask? Well, for those of you who don't know, Matt Corby apparently loves doughnuts, and Krispy Kreme apparently loves music. So, yeah. We're actually not sure if Corby knows that his misfortune is being used to plug glazed doughies — all we know is that someone's giving out free doughnuts (and it's not Doughnut Time). If you've got an expensive piece of paper that is a Matt Corby ticket to his April 12 or 13 Sydney shows, take it to a Krispy Kreme store before midnight to claim your consolation doughnut. Image: Jlhopgood via Flickr.
If you've ever worked in a restaurant where you've had to throw out the still-good offcuts the kitchen doesn't need at at the end of a shift, worked at a supermarket where expired food has at to be tossed in the bin or simply opened your crisper to find a browned and shrivelled iceberg lettuce that you bought and promptly forgot about last week, you'll know that food wastage is rife basically everywhere. And even if you haven't been privy to all that, know that roughly four million tonnes of food is wasted in Australia each year. That's why food rescue charity OzHarvest exists — each day, they go around to cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, airports and hotels to collect the food they don't want and deliver it to people who need it. OzHarvest has been hugely successful at doing this. Since its creation in 2004, the charity has been instrumental in changing how food waste is handled in Australia. Led by founder Ronni Kahn, the organisation has successfully lobbied state governments to alter legislation to allow potential food donors (that is, the supermarkets, restaurants, etc.) to legally donate surplus food to charitable organisations. And now OzHarvest has taken their operation to the next level, by opening a 'rescued food' supermarket in Sydney. The OzHarvest Market is a physical store for all the rescued food the organisation collects. Rather than being delivered directly to charitable groups, the market makes some of the produce available to members of the public, and particularly those in need. That's because nothing at the market has a set price — it operates on a "take what you need, give if you can" model. "The OzHarvest Market is our latest innovation to tackle food waste and eliminate hunger," said founder Ronni Kahn. "It supports OzHarvest's purpose to nourish our country, by making sure good food does not go to waste and is available to everyone." The market is located on the ground floor of the Addison Hotel, which is currently being used as a refuge for homeless youth while the building owners TOGA await approval for a development. OzHarvest will inhabit the space for as long as it is available. The OzHarvest Market is open Monday to Friday from 10am till 2pm at 147 Anzac Parade, Kensington, Sydney. For more information, visit ozharvest.org/market.
2009 may have begun with confronting news coverage of the Israeli incursion into Gaza, but it shall draw to a close with more heartening images from Palestine. For the second year, the Palestinian Film Festival is shining a light on their widely unknown national cinema. From the first Palestinian animation, to a hip-hop documentary, this year’s varied program shows the depth and breadth of their local talent.Opening with the Cannes selected film The Time That Remains, from celebrated director Elia Suleiman, the festival is also hosting an advanced screening of Amreeka, winner of a FIPRESCI (critics’) Prize in Cannes. This crowd-pleaser from debut director Cherien Dabis tells the tale of an intractable mother who moves from the West Bank to America in search of a better life for her teenage son. Other highlights from this impressive program include Edward Said: The Last Interview, surely a must see for anyone who came across the seminal Orientalism in their university studies. The Heart of Jenin is another intriguing documentary, about the Israeli organ recipients of a Palestinian child donor, shot by Israeli soldiers. Feature film Pomegranates and Myrrh also tackles Israeli/Palestinian relations in a story about land rights, imprisonment and dance that reunites Lemon Tree stars Hiam Abbass and Ali Suliman. Taking place at the Palace Norton Street cinemas, the Palestinian Film Festival is a unique window into the cinematic world of this troubled territory. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IZbSkcrT6EU https://youtube.com/watch?v=WqFz6D38QTE https://youtube.com/watch?v=NgofDQxSGRQ
After the chaos that 2020 has thrown the world's way, hoping that 2021 will be different is perfectly understandable. For award-winning Sydney cocktail bar Eau de Vie, which was once 13th on the World's 50 Best Bars list, change is definitely in the air — with the beloved venue announcing that it'll be moving from the Darlinghurst spot it has called home for the past 11 years. Owner-operators Sven Almenning and Greg Sanderson have revealed that they won't be renewing their lease at the Kirketon Hotel; however, to the relief of cocktail lovers across Sydney, this isn't curtains for Eau de Vie. Instead, the pair will move the venue to a new location, although just where the bar will shift to hasn't yet been unveiled. Announcing the news, Almenning noted that "the last few years have not been without their struggles. That said, this is not the end". In a statement, Almenning and Sanderson also advised that the move stems from a combination of factors, but primarily came down to the lease. While mentioning the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, the pair advised that "the decision to relocate Eau de Vie from its current site was down to the ten-year lease ending on the October 28, 2020 and not being able to reach an agreement for renewal". Of course, Eau de Vie will farewell its current digs in a fitting fashion. "There have been countless memories created in this space and it's absolutely worthy of some celebration — and for many of our guests and previous staff a last dram or blazer," Almenning said. "Great times were had here and it's only right we pay homage to them and all the people that brought it them to life." Eau de Vie hasn't announced exactly when its time in Darlinghurst will come to a close as yet, but it will shut its doors by the end of the year — likely just prior to New Year's Eve. Over the next two months, patrons can expect the return of some of the venue's star bartenders, as well as the original and famed cocktails that helped make the place such a hit. And, guests might even be able to take a piece of the bar home with them. As for where Eau de Vie is headed next, a new location is still being scouted, but the aim is to reopen in its new spot in early 2021. Find Eau de Vie at the Kirketon Hotel, 229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst until the end of 2020, with its closing date yet to be announced. We'll update you with more details — and information about its new location — when they come to hand.
UPDATE, 2 AUGUST, 2018: After copping much backlash to its indefinite free-plastic bag offer, Coles has put a deadline on it — just 24 hours later. As reported by the SMH the company sent an internal email to staff notifying them that the offer would end on August 29. While an official statement has not been made by the company, we can only hope it sticks to its guns this time. In the next chapter of Australia's plastic bag saga, Coles has paused its ban again. And, this time, it'll be handing out free reusable bags indefinitely. The supermarket giant attempted to implement a nationwide single-use plastic bag ban on July 1, but announced just six days later that it would be giving them out for free for until July 8 (which was later extended to August 1). The reusable bags that are being given out for free would usually cost shoppers 15c. They're thicker, more durable and are made from 80 percent recycled plastic — and were meant to encourage shoppers to bring them back, again and again, rather than buying a new one each time. The reason Coles has backflipped on its ban is because, supposedly, customers "need more time". A company spokesperson told the ABC, "Some customers told us they needed more time to make the transition." The spokesperson continued, "Many customers bringing bags from home are still finding themselves short a bag or two so we are offering complimentary reusable Better Bags to help them complete their shopping." The complimentary bag offer is only valid in NSW, Vic, WA and Qld, as the other states and territories have already had single-use plastic bag bans in place for several years (SA leading the pack, introducing it back in 2009). The supermarket also offers a cloth bag alternative, its $1 Community Bags, which are designed by Australian school children and ten percent of sales are donated to charities. It's designed to be used repeatedly. Supermarket rival Woolworths, who also implemented a bag on July 1 and also temporarily gave them out for free, is currently charging for the 15c reusable bags.
Summer is nearly upon us. To celebrate, the good folks at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel are throwing a festival dedicated to the perfect summertime beverage — cider. Sitting on the Watsons Bay foreshore, this establishment knows a thing or two about hosting chilled summer events, even in spring. Their Cider Festival will feature a large variety of local and imported ciders. Making good use of the fact that cider rhymes with slider, snacks in slider form will be available all day (as will non-rhyming paella, beef brisket reubens and poke bowls). Live music will be plentiful, as will dessert — there'll be a gelato cart on hand for the sweet-toothed. But things get serious when you join the cider trail. The cider trail will travel along Military Road and culminate at the hotel's breezy Beach Club. This is the kind of walking trail we can all firmly get behind. To partake, you'll need a ticket ($30), available from the venue on the day or here. The cost of the ticket includes 15 tasters of cider, which you find at the many stalls, and a whole bottle of whichever's your favourite.
Amy Herzog's Obie Award-winning, Pulitzer Prize-nominated, talk-of-New York 4000 Miles is a play about death, cross-country cycling and how you move on from either. At 3am, unannounced, Leo (Stephen Multari) arrives at the Big Apple apartment of his grandmother, Vera (Diana Mclean), having cycled from the west coast. She chides him that his mother has been worried sick but lets him lie low a little longer in her spare room. It's clear he's fleeing trouble both at home and on the road, and she'll get the details out of him in due course. You have to unload before you can go back. Till then, 4000 Miles is an odd-couple comedy that at every turn is fresh, vibrant, wonderfully observed and captivating. Twenty-year-old Leo and 91-year-old Vera are both progressives of their age — she a savvy, dyed-in-the-wool Communist whose generation liberated women on paper but not wholly in practice and he a sustainability-touting nomad who both exalts Marx and will drop $50 to visit a specialist gym. They clash, but they bond even more. And then when you think their tete-a-tete can't possibly reach higher heights, they smoke a doobie together. Sydney's big theatre companies don't really take on new international writing. (Belvoir's focus is new Australian writing and reimagined classics. Griffin, this year at least, is all Australian. The Sydney Theatre Company considers new international writing but is not staging any itself in 2013.) This local dedication is not without fair reason, but the downside is that audiences can miss out on seeing some extraordinary stories from overseas produced to a professional level. Those audiences should be flocking to this indie production, which — under the auspices of ATYP and the direction of Anthony Skuse (2012 winner of the Sydney Theatre Award for Best Direction of an Independent Production for Punk Rock) — was always set to be a knockout. It's a beautiful script, gracefully done. Skuse has a warm, playful but unpretentious touch that's particularly visible in scenes such as Leo's imperfectly connected Skype chat with his sister, Lily (Aileen Huynh). This crosses over into outright bravery for the unusually staged climactic scene, and the risk pays off. 4000 Miles has an almost episodic rather than traditionally theatrical structure (TV fans, hi), and the pacing of it is superb. There are great performances across the board, including in smaller roles filled by Huynh and Eloise Snape (both of whom also charmingly, organically double as stage managers). Huynh, in particular, has one scene in which she's licensed to hilariously chew up the scenery, and it's a total joy. (Outside of 4000 Miles, she seems to channel a similar energy into her YouTube videos.) 4000 Miles is a rarity, a play in which light and dark are jammed in close to each other and yet achieve a precious sense of symbiosis. A treat. Photo by Gez Xavier Mansfield.
Believe it or not, it's been 17 years since Stephenie Meyer's vampire romance saga first hit the big screen — and since tweens across the globe collectively fell in love with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, too. The pair's careers have rocketed since, with KStew hopping between everything from Clouds of Sils Maria, Personal Shopper, Charlie's Angels and Happiest Season to Spencer, Crimes of the Future and Love Lies Bleeding, and RPatz going from The Rover, The Lost City of Z and Good Time to High Life, Tenet, The Batman and Mickey 17. They'll always have that undead franchise on their resumes, though. Forgotten what the five vamp films are like? Love them and want to see them on a big screen again? Just adore movie marathons in general? Whatever reason you have, the Twilight Saga Full Moon Marathon wants you to sink your fans in. Stewart, Pattinson, Taylor Lautner (Home Team) and all-star supporting cast that spans Dakota Fanning (The Watchers), Anna Kendrick (Woman of the Hour), Michael Sheen (A Very Royal Scandal) and Bryce Dallas Howard (Argylle) will all feature at Randwick Ritz as the five blockbusters hit the silver screen once more. Taking place on Friday, October 10, the lengthy journey of glorious supernatural light-erotica will kick off at 8.30pm as Bella lands in Forks, Washington in the original Twilight film. From there, it's all love triangles, revengeful vampires, and half-human babies as New Moon, Eclipse and the two-part Breaking Dawn features run back-to-back. Tickets cost $40, and expect company — these sessions always prove popular. Also, there's a break for breakfast before the two-part finale.
The Central Coast's truly underrated, sustainable and naturally stunning festival Mountain Sounds is back for another year. Heading back to the pretty, pretty spot of Mount Penang Parklands in Kariong for a third year, Mountain Sounds has locked in Saturday, February 20 for its 2016 instalment. And the lineup is some seriously applaudable biznatch. Headlined by Brisbane's Violent Soho, The Strokes twanger Albert Hammond Jr., Melburnian dream poppers Alpine, Adelaidean beatsmith Motez, big Sydney dance trio Art Vs Science, hugely hyped Australian duo Holy Holy, triple j favourites I Know Leopard and more, Mountain Sounds has rounded up quite the eclectic lineup. Giving a high five to the environment once more, the locally-founded Mountain Sounds is again set to take great care in minimising the environmental impact and carbon footprint of the festival. There'll also be silent discos and campsite parties curated by the team, who all grew up on the Central Coast. With tickets on sale now and sitting around 90 beans, this is an end-of-summer festival worth the measly dosh for. Enough chat, here's that lineup you're after. MOUNTAIN SOUNDS FESTIVAL 2016 LINEUP: Albert Hammond Jr. (USA) Alpine Art Vs Science The Delta Riggs Green Buzzard Harts Hockey Dad Holy Holy I Know Leopard Jack Beats (UK) The Jezabels - HEADLINE The Lazys Motez Nina Las Vegas Odd Mob Sea Legs Set Mo Slumberjack Tropical Zombie World Champion Plus: Bass RQ Bodega Collective Catalyst Elwood Myre Goonz Ivy J-Ray Jaket Jimmi Walker Man To Moon The Moving Stills Paperfox Pear Peekay Savilian SnilluM Stay Sane The Sea Gypsies Tom Hogan Twin Caverns Voyage IV Image: Tim Da Rin/Mountain Sounds.
It's that time of year, somehow. Christmas is almost here, summer has officially started and you're probably thinking about your 2021 shenanigans. While jetting overseas still isn't an option for Australians at the moment, you can make plans to roam around much of this country we all come home now that borders are reopening — and, if you'd like to head over to South Australia in the new year, its government wants to give you an extra incentive. As part of the returning Great State Vouchers scheme — which first ran in October this year — the SA Government is giving away $50 and $100 vouchers to use at hotels in the state between Thursday, January 7–Wednesday, March 31, 2021. The amount of the voucher varies depending on where you're planning on staying, with $50 vouchers on offer for regional and suburban accommodation, and $100 vouchers available to use for Adelaide CBD and North Adelaide stays. During the first round of vouchers, more than 50,000 where snapped up in just over an hour — but they were only available to South Australian residents. This time around, with more than $2 million worth of vouchers available, the scheme is open to interstate folks as well. And, in another expansion, they can be redeemed over a longer booking period, and can also be used at accommodation places with five or more rooms (up from ten or more last time). That means that you'll be able to choose between hundreds of places to stay — with more than 800 accommodation providers eligible to participate. To take part, you'll need to download a voucher from the scheme's website on Tuesday, January 5, then make your booking between Thursday, January 7–Sunday, January 31. There are a few caveats, unsurprisingly. The vouchers don't cover Saturday nights and, to try to nab one, you'll have to log on to the voucher website and prove your identification via your driver's license or proof of age card. Border-wise, SA currently doesn't require interstate visitors to quarantine, after opening its borders to Victoria on Tuesday, December 1. But some states do currently have restrictions in place for anyone who has travelled to South Australia, or parts of it (such as Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania) — or require permits (Victoria) to enter if you've been in SA. So, it's best to keep an eye on your state's requirements when you're trying to score a voucher and then making a hotel booking. For further details about South Australia's Great State Vouchers scheme — or to nab one on Tuesday, January 5 — head to its website.
Apologies to anyone who isn't a Harry Styles fan — 2022 clearly isn't your year. The former One Direction member has been everywhere over the past nine months, given that he's headlined Coachella, dropped a new album, and announced a big Australian and New Zealand tour. Oh, and he's also been the talk of the Venice Film Festival just this week for potentially spitting on Chris Pine at the premiere of Don't Worry Darling, one of two movies that'll be giving Styles' acting skills a workout on screens near you this spring. The upcoming second flick on Styles' resume? That'd be My Policeman — which will also send Styles back in time, to the 1950s to be exact, because starring in movies set seven decades ago is the ex-boy band star's own personal 2022 trend. As first revealed in the film's initial teaser back in June, this one gives off big Carol vibes, but in Britain, and focusing on a love triangle involving the titular cop, the man he falls for and the woman who loves him. Due to hit Prime Video Down Under on November 4, My Policeman sees Styles plays Tom, that eponymous law enforcement officer. In sweeping, emotionally resonant period-drama style, the movie gets him caught between teacher Marion (Emma Corrin, The Crown) and museum curator Patrick (David Dawson, All the Old Knives). And as the just-dropped new sneak shows, heartbreak seems to be the prevailing mood. My Policeman will also flit forward to the 1990s, where the older Tom (Linus Roache, Homeland), Marion (Gina McKee, Phantom Thread) and Patrick (Rupert Everett, The Happy Prince) are still haunted by how things played out when they were younger. If the storyline sounds familiar, that's because My Policeman comes to the screen from Bethan Roberts' 2012 novel of the same name. For the film version, director Michael Grandage (Red) is doing the honours, with Ron Nyswaner (Freeheld, Philadelphia) on screenplay duties. Based on the handsome trailers so far, both of which sport a hefty mood of yearning, viewers can expect an exploration of love, social expectations, and the tumult that springs when the latter dictates the former. And, obviously, for Styles' latest on-screen stint after Dunkirk, Eternals and Don't Worry Darling, which releases a month earlier in October. Check out the full trailer for My Policeman below: My Policeman will be available to stream via Prime Video in Australia and New Zealand on November 4. Images: courtesy of Prime Video © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC.
We may now have to wait till the end of winter for Sydney's spectacular festival of lights, tunes and ideas (yes, we're talking about Vivid) but that doesn't mean the season will be devoid of its usual buzz. In fact, it'll be far from it thanks to Sydney Solstice, which is descending on the harbour city for two weeks this June. Like its more established sister event, Sydney Solstice embraces the cooler climate, and is taking over more than 200 venues, laneways and public spaces with everything from free late-night raves to fancy fine dining feasts. So, no matter how much cash you have to splash, there's plenty to add to your calendar. But, as we say, it's a big lineup. We've teamed up with NSW Government via Destination NSW to bring you six Sydney Solstice events that are worth checking out, on any budget. From luminous art projections you can see free of charge to make-your-own-cheese classes, these events will more than help you get your arts fix this winter. FREE [caption id="attachment_812205" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sydney Opera House[/caption] CATCH LUMINOUS PROJECTIONS AT BADU GILI: WINTER NIGHTS Free This winter, Badu Gili is taking over Sydney Opera House for the third year in a row with Badu Gili: Wonder Women — a captivating six-minute animation showcasing the work and stories of six female First Nations artists. The projections will illuminate the iconic sails each night across Sydney Solstice (June 8–20), and will backdrop Badu Gili's jam-packed live program, which is also making a comeback. So, you can also catch live music, dance performances and poetry while the projections share ancient stories and contemporary culture of our First Nations people. There'll also be a pop-up bar, overseen by a First Nations chef, which will serve native ingredient-inspired drinks and snacks. [caption id="attachment_814968" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] DANCE IN THE STREETS Free Been a while since you cut some shapes on a dance floor? COVID-19 sure brought some Footloose energy, with dancing off the cards for quite some time. So, if you're looking to get your groove back, be sure to head to Wanna Dance — an art installation and street party in the streets of Haymarket. Taking over Parker Lane from June 8–26, you can expect disco lights and dance-inducing tracks coming from top local DJs, spinning everything from C-Pop, K-Pop and bangers from other corners of the globe. And, come June 11–13 and June 17–19, there'll be dance performances and demos, showcasing styles such as street dance, contemporary and hip hop. It's time to live out your wildest Kevin Bacon dreams. UNDER $50 [caption id="attachment_813388" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] ICE SKATE BY THE WATER AT DARLING HARBOUR WINTER FEST $22 Swap out your slippers for ice skates this winter by heading to Darling Harbour's winter wonderland. The magical transformation has everything from giant arctic slides and ice rinks to sprawling food markets, live gigs and fireworks. The rink is taking over the forecourt of the International Convention Centre Sydney and will play host to dazzling skating performances. If you're feeling inspired and want to get in on the action, you can whiz around on the ice for $18–22 (includes skate hire). After you show off your best Tonya Harding skills, kick back to DJs and live bands and tuck in to a hearty feed from the nearby Tumbalong Park market. UNDER $100 [caption id="attachment_813521" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tribal Warrior[/caption] EAT BUSH TUCKER BY AN ISLAND CAMPFIRE $66 Experience Sydney's Indigenous heritage with a special guided visit to Me-Mel (Goat Island). Running across four days this June, this three-hour tour promises an unforgettable look at Sydney and its traditional custodians. You'll learn about the significance of the island to the local First Nations people, receive a traditional Indigenous ochre and welcome ceremony, and witness a cultural song and dance performance. Along the tour you'll also see traditional artefacts and learn about the natural flora and fauna on the island. You'll also enjoy a fireside barbecue bush tucker lunch as you chat with the performers. Pick-up and drop-off is at Circular Quay. [caption id="attachment_648141" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sea Life Sydney Aquarium[/caption] PARTY WITH SEA CREATURES $55–75 Head to Sydney's Sea Life Aquarium after the sun goes down and see it transformed into a late-night neon playground for adults. For $55, you'll be greeted with a drink on arrival and allowed the unique opportunity to beat the day crowds and wander through an underwater world with sea creatures and bioluminescence. You'll catch glow-in-the-dark dancers, magicians and installations by the Sugar Republic team, with a barbecue station and pop-up bars to keep you fuelled. Then, head to the dance floor — set under 'a wave frozen in time', no less — to enjoy a live DJ set, as you look through the floor-to-ceiling glass tank to tropical fish and turtles floating by. BIG BLOWOUT [caption id="attachment_813522" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luisa Brimble[/caption] MAKE YOUR OWN CHEESE $180–220 Taking place in the recently opened South Eveleigh food precinct, these hands-on cheese classes with acclaimed dairy queen Kristen Allan are a must for any cheese fiend. There are two classes to pick from — Ricotta, Cultured Butter and Yoghurt ($180) and Mozzarella, Burrata and Straciatella ($220) — both of which will teach you the secrets behind making your own dairy delights. After some demonstrations, you'll be rolling up your sleeves and getting to work before enjoying the fruits of your labour (and taking any leftovers home with you). Plus, no doubt you'll be making cheese from scratch for years to come which, really, is invaluable. Keen to check out the full program? Head to the Sydney Solstice website. Top image: Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
Messina news just keeps on rolling. Now there's an entire soft serve-focused Gelato Messina? Where you can make your own sweet monstrosity and put it in your face? WHAT. EVEN. In epic, epic news, the Messina Dessert Bar is now open on Victoria Road, described by the team as a "choose your own adventure sundae bar". A long-time project of the crew, who just today announced the opening of a new Messina store in Miranda, the new dessert bar will feature soft serve versions of Messina's already applauded weirdness — fanta gelato anyone? — and you'll be able to add your own toppings. We're talking teeny raspberry meringues, strawberries and cream jellies, smoked butter popcorn. Do we want fairy floss on top? Yes. Yes we do. Oh god, yes we do. Here's a dessert-porn look at what's in store for the new Messina Dessert Bar, some suggestions (read: absolute must-gets) from the team. We're not responsible for upturned tables or drool-zapped keyboards. Trailer trash brunch — Crepe lined cup filled with fanta sorbet and burnt vanilla gelato swirl, cointreau set custard, mandarin tuile and mandarin gel. Pavlova-kona — Raspberry waffle cone filled with burnt vanilla gelato, raspberry jellies, passion fruit curd , raspberry coulis and topped with raspberry meringues. Carni Candi — Waffle cone filled with fanta sorbet, redskin custard, strawberries and cream jellies then dipped in chocolate and topped with fairy floss. Honey I Burnt The Kids — Burnt vanilla gelato, burnt honey mousse, smoked butter popcorn, smoked chocolate fudge served in a cup. Find Messina Dessert Bar at 243 Victoria St, Darlinghurst. Open Monday to Thursday from 5-11pm, Friday and Saturday 5-11.30pm, Sunday 5-11pm.
If there's ever a time not to throw away your shot, it's this: getting the chance to be in the room where Lin-Manuel Miranda chats about Hamilton live in Australia in March. The smash-hit musical's creator is heading Down Under for the first time since the show started its Australian run, to see the Aussie version which kicked off in Sydney, then hit Melbourne and is now playing Brisbane. Even better: he's doing a live public Q&A session to share some insights about the theatre production that everyone has been talking about for almost a decade now. While the news that Miranda would hit Brisbane for an in-person Hamilton fan event was revealed last week, further details have now dropped. The Tony-, Grammy-, Emmy-, Olivier- and Pulitzer Prize-winner will take to the QPAC Lyric Theatre stage on Sunday, March 5 to discuss all things Hamilton in an interview with Leigh Sales. Also joining them: actor Jason Arrow, who plays Alexander Hamilton in the Australian production. [caption id="attachment_795466" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Attendees can expect to hear about everything from Miranda's decision to make the show to begin with through to how the lyrics for Hamilton's famous tunes came about — and about the music theatre easter eggs peppered throughout the piece as well. Folks eager to get the Hamilton scoop from the man himself will need to hope they have luck on their side, however, given that the only way to attend is to win free tickets. Entries open at 10am AEST today, Monday, February 20, via the QPAC website, closing at 10am on Wednesday, February 22 — which is when winners will be drawn, then notified by email. Miranda's Brisbane Q&A is an Australian exclusive, so Hamilton obsessives elsewhere in the country will need to make plans to hit up the Sunshine State if they score tickets. [caption id="attachment_773737" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hamilton filmed version courtesy Disney+.[/caption] "I have been waiting such a long time to come to Australia and I can't wait to be with the company down under in-person for the first time," said Miranda when his visit was first announced. "I have heard such great things from friends and fans in Australia, it is going to be fantastic to be able to meet them and watch them perform." The biggest show in musical theatre this century, this game-changing, award-winning, rightly raved-about take on 18th-century American politics is about the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, as well as inclusion and politics in current-day America. In addition to its swag of Tony Awards — 11 in fact, which includes Best Musical — it has nabbed a Grammy Award and even a Pulitzer Prize. And, Miranda wrote the music, lyrics and the book for the critically acclaimed hip hop musical. [caption id="attachment_774805" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hamilton filmed version courtesy Disney+.[/caption] The Broadway hit's Aussie production features a cast that currently includes Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton, Martha Berhane as Eliza Hamilton, Callan Purcell as Aaron Burr, Akina Edmonds as Angelica Schuyler, Matu Ngaropo as George Washington, and Victory Ndukwe as Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson. Sami Afuni plays Hercules Mulligan and James Madison, Wern Mak does double duty as John Laurens and Philip Hamilton, Elandrah Eramiha plays Peggy Schuyler and Maria Reynolds, and Brent Hill steps into King George III's robes. When it finishes its Brisbane season at QPAC's Lyric Theatre on Sunday, April 23, the show will leave the country for a New Zealand run. That'll mean that fans will then need to be content with watching the filmed version of Hamilton's Broadway production, which started streaming via Disney+ in 2020, again. (And yes, it's as phenomenal as you've heard). Brisbanites keen to see Hamilton for cheap in-person can also try the $10 ticket lottery, which offers tickets for less than the cost of lunch. [caption id="attachment_846530" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Lin-Manuel Miranda will chat with Leigh Sales and Jason Arrow at QPAC's Lyric Theatre, South Bank, Brisbane on Sunday, March 5. To enter to win free tickets to attend, head to the QPAC website between 10am AEST on Monday, February 20–10am on Wednesday, February 22. Hamilton's Brisbane season runs until Sunday, April 23 at QPAC's Lyric Theatre, South Bank, with tickets available via the musical's website. Top image: Hamilton filmed version courtesy Disney+.
With less than a month till New Year's, it's time to start planning for a memorable way to end 2014. But if this year has ended too soon for you, be transported back in time at The Roosevelt. Taking inspiration from the '50s and '60s, yet with a modern twist, the Roosevelt is the place to be for New Year's if you've ever fancied yourself a contemporary incarnation of a cashed-up mid-century eccentric. Buying a ticket to this New Year's Eve party is sure to set you on your way to sophisticated, toe-tapping, thirst-quenching fun — they're offering bottomless champagne, unlimited martinis, canapes, as well as entertainment for the evening, including a jazz band, burlesque dancers and one very cheeky magician. Think this is your year to class it up for NYE? For more info and bookings contact Jamie-Lee on 0423 203 119 or at jamie-lee@theroosevelt.com.au.
Sometimes, a block of Cadbury Dairy Milk will do — but if you're looking for a nice little gift for a sugar-loving family member, it just doesn't cut it. For those times, head to Belle Fleur Fine Chocolates at the Rozelle end of Darling Street. For over 30 years, chocolate-making expertise has been passed down over four generations to create new and inventive flavours and designs. For instance, the 'Aussie' which is "a unique Aussie salted flavour in a smooth ganache, enrobed in dark chocolate", aka it's Vegemite-flavoured. There are plenty of options for more conservative chocoholics as well, including the many truffles, pralines and caramels (yes, including salted). Even if eating chocolate isn't your thing, check out the shop, as it often features large chocolate replicas of famous buildings, tool sets or even hamburgers. Updated March 2024
Looks like Sydney’s going to get a taste of the old days; the lockout laws will be lifted again for one night only on New Year’s Eve. Confirmed by the state government and reported by Same Same, the laws are apparently being lifted to avoid crazy rushes to venues before 1:30am after the fireworks finish. In other words, you’ll be treated like some kind of responsible adult for one glorious evening. Now, don’t fuck it up. If you’re venturing into the CBD on New Year’s Eve (you dedicated shindig-seeker you), you’ll be able to enter CBD/Kings Cross bars, pubs and clubs until 3am — so popping out for a cheeky 2am ciggie won’t separate you from your bag and buddies this NYE. Last drinks at 3am, as per usual, and bars won’t be changing their closing time. Seems there’s been a bucketload of meetings on this one; last year, the state government was apparently advised to lift the lockouts by the City of Sydney, the police and the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing — all three said it would improve safety for the night. The lockout lift is a means to avoid accidents at Sydney’s wharves in particular, with fireworks watchers heading into the city and trying to beat the clock to the kick-on party. So Sydney, keep your punches in your damn pockets and celebrate the New Year with a window into the old way of things. Or just watch the fireworks from your local outside-lockout pub and leave your eyelids unbatted on this one. Via Same Same.
You know that kind of unassuming pub on Regent Street? Up from Freda's, across from the servo with the attached Chinese restaurant? Yeah, the Gladstone. Once the realms of Kate Bush's Wuthering Heights on jukebox repeat, drum and bass nights and a certain beery carpet funk (but always good pub grub), The Lord Gladstone is back as Chippendale's newest revamped live music venue and art-friendly pub. Revamped by the legends behind The Vic in Enmore and the Toxteth in Glebe, the Lord Gladstone has a fresh coat of paint, reopened kitchen and that widely high-fived sound system (previously well-thrashed by drum and bass night Afterlife); perfect for hosting after parties over the last six weeks for the likes of Sticky Fingers, Horrorshow and One Day. Little Bastard even played in the beer garden, and FBi shows Dusty Fingers and Loose Joints teamed up for a little shindig. Chippendale dwellers can officially look forward to ad-hoc music events up ahead at the Gladstone, continuing on its history of sporadic Sydney music nights. It's another win for the suburb after the expanded music roster of the Lansdowne, the folk/country residencies at The Chip Off the Old Block and the perpetually kickass electronica at Knox Street Bar, not to forget Freda's always eclectic lineup of gigs. But more live music isn't all you can look forward to at the reborn Gladstone. The pub is now home to Goodspace; a gallery curated by Chris Loutfy of Press Books. Lord Gladstone now hosts monthly art exhibitions, including its debut show Process which opened last week on level one — featuring work by Chris Yee, James Jirat Patradoon, Georgia Hill, Beastman and Numskull among others. Plus, you can take in a Swans game downstairs after you're done. Up the Bloods. Food-wise, the kitchen's cranking out burgers, parmy toasties and deep fried Golden Gaytimes. There’s pickled eggs ($2 each) and endgame beans ($7) to nibble at as well. Don’t expect your cheap, basic pub specials though, with fancy fare like 300g New York cut steak with potato gratin, green beans and cabernet jus ($26); beef cheek and red wine pie with mashed potato and smashed peas ($20), pancetta, garden pea and gorgonzola dulce risotto ($22) and whole roasted rainbow trout with fenugreek butter, kipfler potatoes, fennel and dill ($28). But that's what you're paying at the Courty anyway these days, it's the pricey pub age we live in. Find the Lord Gladstone at 115 Regent Street, Chippendale. It's open for lunch and dinner every day, and open until 3am Thursday to Saturday, lockout free. Check the Facebook page for upcoming events. Images: The Lord Gladstone.
Odd Future may have called it a day, but the gang's still going strong in their own pursuits. One such OFWGKTA rapper who's dropping by for this year’s Splendour in the Grass is Earl Sweatshirt, tipped to be one of the big tickets of this year's sideshows. The Los Angeles-based rapper/producer has brought out two solo albums: Doris in 2013 and I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside, in 2015 — both of which have been commended for Earl's distinctive and cerebral brand of hip hop. The former featured a plethora of guest appearances including fellow OFWGKTA Tyler the Creator and Frank Ocean, as well as RZA and The Neptunes — but don't go crossing fingers for cameos, sorry guys.
Ever since Margaret and David exited our lives after the conclusion of At the Movies last year, there has been a bit of a hole in our film-loving hearts. Thankfully, neither one of them has fully retired, and David Stratton for one has certainly been busy. Stratton brings Australian audiences the inaugural Great British Retro Film Festival, for which he is both curator and patron. The festival will be touring nationally, but for a slice of the action in Sydney, head to the Orpheum and embrace your inner Brit. The festival includes 19 films of Britain’s greatest contributions to cinema. As you can imagine, the program is filled to the brim with classics, such as 2001: Space Odyssey, Sense and Sensibility, Lawrence of Arabia and Brief Encounter. There are five classics from the esteemed Powell and Pressburger catalogue, but more modern works such as Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire also get a look-in for those who like to celebrate Britain's more recent achievements in cinema as well.
There's never a bad day for oysters. Good thing it's almost certainly easier — and cheaper — to dine on them throughout May with The Boathouse Group's latest promotion. Serving up these coastal delights for $2 each all day, every day, eight of the group's venues are getting involved up and down the coastline. Made possible thanks to a partnership with East 33, a leading supplier of Sydney rock oysters, now is your chance to soak up the sun at Barrenjoey House in Palm Beach or settle in for a long lunch at Manly Pavilion. You might even opt for a day trip to The Boathouse Patonga or a leisurely stroll to The Boathouse Shelly Beach — an oyster feast is a worthy reward. Other venues serving these treasures of the sea for just $2 are The Mona Social, The Boathouse Balmoral, The Boathouse Rose Bay and The Boathouse North Wollongong. So, regardless of whether you're north or south of the city, indulging in cheap but quality oysters is made easy. Once you've ordered up a freshly shucked platter, all that's left to do is squeeze a little lemon and find the perfect drink to pair them with. Consider how much you're saving on the oysters, you wouldn't be blamed for splurging on a cocktail or two.
Comings and goings are part of every soap opera, especially any series that's notched up decade after decade on the small screen. With Neighbours marking its 40th anniversary in 2025, plenty of faces have arrived and departed the show since 1985. Now the Aussie staple itself is saying farewell — again. The long-running series initially wrapped up in 2022, then was resurrected by Amazon in 2023, but has now been cancelled for a second time. "We are sad to announce that Neighbours will be resting from December 2025. New episodes from the 40th-anniversary season will continue to air on Prime Video and Ten four times a week until the end of the year, with all the big soapie twists and turns that our viewers love," announced the team behind the series on social media. "Audiences all around the world have loved and embraced Neighbours for four decades and we are very proud of the huge success over the last two years, including often appearing as one of the Top 10 titles in the UK and the show's first ever Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Daytime Series in 2024. As this chapter closes, we appreciate and thank Amazon MGM Studios for all that they have done for Neighbours — bringing this iconic and much-loved series to new audiences globally," said Neighbours Executive Producer Jason Herbison. "We value how much the fans love Neighbours and we believe there are more stories of the residents of Ramsay Street to tell in the future." Herbison's statement leaves the door open for a continuation, if another TV network or streaming platform were to decide that everybody needs more Neighbours. When the show first said goodbye in 2022 — when it was originally cancelled after being dropped by its UK network, Channel 5, leaving local backer Network Ten without enough funding to continue the series — it did so with help from some of its big-name past stars. Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Barbie star Margot Robbie and The Brutalist Oscar-nominee Guy Pearce all returned for its initial sendoff, before the series made a comeback in 2023. Since its mid-80s debut, Neighbours has aired more than 9000 episodes, all charting the lives of characters either living in or connected to the show's cul-de-sac in the fictitious Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough. As well as Minogue, Donovan and Pearce, 80s-era Neighbours boasted a four-episode stint from Russell Crowe (Kraven the Hunter). In the 90s, Natalie Imbruglia got her start there. Liam Hemsworth (Lonely Planet) was a regular in the 00s, as was Robbie, and Chris Hemsworth (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga) popped up in one 2002 episode before moving over to rival Aussie soap Home and Away. Also just as sizeable: the show's four decades of twists, amnesia spells, shock returns from the dead, and Ramsay and Robinson family dramas. Neighbours will continue to air until December 2025 via Network Ten and Prime Video in Australia, Prime Video in New Zealand, and Amazon Freevee in the UK and US — then say farewell. Images: Fremantle / Prime Video.
Summer is the season for Bondi Pavilion to shine. Which is why it's gone all peacock on us and is showing off with a spectacle of events over the next few months. The unveiling of the new-look Bondi Pav following a multimillion-dollar restoration reopens a centre for community activity on Bondi's beachfront. And, yes, while most parts of the revamped space — such as the art gallery, Bondi Story Room, Between The Flags store, pottery studio and expansive public courtyard — are worth checking out all year round, some things are just better with a side of summer sunshine. First up is Casa Aperol, the Mediterranean-inspired pop-up slinging fruity cocktails from December 2022 to March 2023. Or summer Tai Chi — which will help you get your zen on every Tuesday in the High Tide Room until January 31, 2023. There's also Glory Days Restaurant & Bar from the hospitality group behind North Sydney's Glorietta. The upstairs bar is currently open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm until dusk, while the ground-floor restaurant is opening soon and will be serving Italian fare in an appropriately casual atmosphere for a venue located a few steps from the sand. Culture vultures and art aficionados should save the date and check out the Summer Cinema, which will show screenings of classic cinema from around the world on various Wednesday evenings from the Pav's beautiful theatre; sign up for Bondi Stories — Local History Tours or a Bondi Aboriginal walking tour to learn more about the stories behind this iconic seaside locale, or Liquid Mountains, a free art exhibition worth adding to calendar. For the full-line up events at Bondi Pavilion this summer, check out the website.
It has been more than half a decade since Australia's most ambitious outdoor cinema held its first Sydney pop-up, letting movie lovers catch a flick under the stars while getting cosy in one of its beds (yes, beds). Of course, that type of event hasn't really suited these COVID-19 times so far, so Mov'In has adapted in 2020 — launching Mov'In Car, a pop-up drive-in on Entertainment Quarter's rooftop. Last year, the brand also floated Mov'In Boat into Darling Harbour, too, because there are plenty of ways to watch movies in outside spaces. But this month, for six weeks from Friday, October 29 through till Wednesday, December 1, it's bringing back its automobile-based outdoor film-viewing setup. Returning now that Sydney's lockdown is over and New South Wales' roadmap back to normality is underway, Mov'In Car will screen films every night of the week except Mondays, kicking off with Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. From there, it'll move to horror flicks for Halloween — think: IT and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, so you can choose between eerie and song-filled viewing — and then cycle between classics and recent favourites. Other highlights include Wrath of Man, the latest movie to pair Guy Ritchie with Jason Statham; Oscar-winner Nomadland, which brings its own vehicle theme to the drive-in; Aussie page-to-screen drama The Dry; and Joker, featuring Joaquin Phoenix's applauded lead performance. Black Widow, Raya and the Last Dragon, Free Guy and Jungle Cruise help round out the new-ish releases — and yes, Dirty Dancing is also on the bill, because it's always on every drive-in and outdoor cinema lineup. There'll also be snacks, food and beverages available to buy, complete with all-you-can-eat pizza deals, bottomless popcorn and Nutella calzones. Mov'In Car isn't BYO, so you'll have to purchase all hot food and drinks inside — but you can bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. Price-wise, tickets for a car with one or two people cost $49.90, while you can head along with three or more people for $59.90 per vehicle. All-you-can-eat pizza costs $49.90 for two as well. Also, Mov'In Car is dog-friendly, although your pet pooch will need to stay in your car. Mov'In Car is returning to Entertainment Quarter's rooftop from Friday, October 29–Wednesday, December 1. For further details or to book, head to the Mov'In Car website.
Is there a better way to spend a weekend than sipping a margarita harbourside with stunning panoramic views of two of the most iconic landmarks in the world? If this sounds like an ideal way to while away a few hours, Opera Bar is serving up exactly that, with a four-day celebration of everyone's favourite tequila cocktail. The Marg Fest will take place between Thursday, March 23—Sunday, March 26. Four playful iterations of the humble margarita will be rolled out as part of the festival, ranging from down-the-line classics to inventive interpretations using Patron Silver as the hero spirit. Take your pick between the classic Tommy's Margarita, two frozen margs — a guava variety and a spicy habanero version — and a boozy flip of a summer classic with the margarita soft serve. Tickets for the festival will set you back $45, which includes three complimentary cocktails of your choice, plus access to the dedicated margarita bar. There will also be roaming entertainment, a glitter squad and DJs throughout the weekend, as well as a Marg Fest food lineup featuring fish tacos, corn ribs and pulled pork quesadillas. If you're heading on Thursday, the festival kicks off at 4pm. Throughout the rest of the weekend, the bar will be pumping from 11am until late. You can secure your ticket by pre-purchasing it from the Opera Bar website. [caption id="attachment_749472" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Oliver Minnett[/caption]
No man is an island entire of itself. Except maybe Peter Thiel, co-founder of Paypal. Working in tandem with the Seasteading Institute, the Silicon Valley billionaire is making plans for the first floating city to be launched off the coast of San Francisco next year. As an organisation experimenting in the creation of floating island states, the institute is a hub of design and innovation in offshore communities. What can be best described as 'oil-platform like structures' will operate according to Mr. Thiel's ideas of a "more efficient, practical public sector model", unfettered by minimum wage, welfare, restrictions on weapons and tight building codes. Quite a list you say. The icing on the cake is Mr. Thiel's US$1.25 billion pledge, calling upon Seastead to 'open a frontier for experimenting with new ideas for government'. In an interview with Details magazine, founder of the Seasteading Institute has estimated the project to start small with 270 residents, and rapidly upscale to support over ten million by 2050. For those averse to the idea, Margaret Crawford, Professor of Architecture at UC Berkeley, cites it as particularly shortsighted, and "without any urban-planning implications whatsoever". And she has a point. Many other concerns that have been raised, namely "What about pirates?" and "Are seasteading enthusiasts just a bunch of rich guys wanting even more freedom?" are also addressed as perfectly legitimate in the Institute's FAQ section.
Show your puppy some love this Valentine's Day at BrewDog South Eveleigh. Whether you've got a date lined up or you're looking to mingle, bringing along your pup for company means they can get amongst a special dog-friendly menu designed to make their day. For instance, the $15 puppy parms are bound to be a hit, while the $12 barkuterie boards feature an assortment of dog treats and a peanut butter cup. Then you can spoil them even more with a Hop Nation 'dog beer'; veterinarian-approved and made with 100% human-grade ingredients. Of course, this Valentine's Day event isn't just for your furry friends. Human diners can also delve into a $42 two-course menu featuring signature dishes like the patriot burger with 7oz beef patties and smoked bacon, the cluck norris burger with buttermilk fried chicken and avocado, and the spicy meaty pizza. There's also an array of plant-based options, so vegan and vego diners won't miss out. Plus, you can expect the full range of BrewDog craft beers alongside limited-time beverages, a thoughtful wine selection, vibrant cocktails and refreshing non-alcoholic options.
It's fair to say that MasterChef Australia winner and media personality chef Adam Liaw is a national treasure. When he's not blessing us with insights on Twitter or presenting cooking shows on TV that make our tummies grumble, he's off collaborating with flavoursome chip brand, Red Rock Deli. And on Wednesday, May 15, Liaw will be hosting an intimate secret supper for 20 guests. The location remains a secret for now — as does the menu. All we know so far is that the three-course menu will be inspired by Red Rock Deli's newest flavour — Limited-Edition Thai Red Chilli and Creamy Coconut. [caption id="attachment_718821" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould[/caption] It's all very hush-hush — but we've done some prying. First up, Liaw did tell us that the menu is 'a journey in three parts'. The first dish will hero chilli, while the dessert will incorporate the creamy texture of coconut. For the main, you can expect both flavours to be featured. We also know that Liaw's knowledge of Asian cuisines is extraordinary — he was born in Malaysia to an English Singaporean mother and Hainanese Chinese father and is the Goodwill Ambassador for Japanese cuisine — and he loves bringing elements from these cuisines into his cooking. "The one thing I always come back to is not how different they are, but how much common ground there is. Every cuisine has its comfort foods, sweet treats, grilled meats and balanced tastes. Once you understand the context of the food, the ingredients can be combined and integrated to create something new," he told us. [caption id="attachment_659258" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chaco Bar, Leticia Almeida[/caption] So, in trying to crack the menu code, we thought we'd find out a little about the Asian restaurants that Liaw visits in Sydney (and the dishes he orders) for inspiration. He name-dropped a few of his recent favourites, which may give us an idea of what to expect. First up: wagyu carpaccio with sea urchin, parmesan and truffle — a bold flavour combo — from Darlinghurst's Chaco Bar. And, if you're feeling brave, Liaw recommends the 'char-siu' roasted Glacier toothfish from Mr Wong. What is a Glacier toothfish? And why do we want to eat it? It just goes to show that a menu item that starts with 'char-siu' (which is traditionally served as barbecued pork) can end however it likes and, if Liaw suggests it, we'll give it a go. He also mentioned Mama Mulan's Mongolian-style lamb ribs with cumin and the Moo ping marinated pork skewers with jim jaew from Khao Pla as inspirational dishes. [caption id="attachment_611319" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mr Wong[/caption] Rounding out Liaw's top six were hot pot chain The Dolar Shop and Ho Jiak — both in Haymarket. "[They're] doing fantastic things with modern, creative Asian food while still understanding Australia's love of authenticity," he says. From Dolar Shop, he rates the Sichuan broth, whole big eye ocean perch and sweet potato noodles. You had us at whole big eye ocean perch, Mr Liaw. Adam Liaw's Secret Supper is now sold out but we've still got two tickets to give away. To be in with a chance, head this way. And, while you wait for the big night to roll around, you can get cracking on this Liaw-certified recommendation circuit. Top Image: Kitti Gould.
After a year of travelling inside our own states (and around our own apartments), the last of the interstate borders are finally opening. Apart from WA (which is still closed to SA) and Queensland (which is opening up to SA from Saturday, December 12), Australians can visit anywhere in the country without quarantining. To celebrate, ridesharing service DiDi is offering half-price rides to airports across the country from now all the way through till Sunday, January 31 2021. This is great news if you have trips home to see the fam or summer getaways planned. You can, of course, choose from Ola, Uber or DiDi. If you go with the latter, though — you'll get a much cheaper trip. The newer of the three, DiDi is offering every rider two half-price trips (with a max saving of $20 a trip) to eligible airports, which include Melbourne Tullamarine, Melbourne Avalon, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast airports. You just need to jump onto the app, use the code 'EXPLORE' and you'll get access to the discounted trips. DiDi has implemented a range of safety measures in a bid to reduce the spread of COVID-19, too, including two-person passenger limits in an Express and four in a Max, installing over 2000 in-car partition screens and distributing face masks to drivers. DiDi Chuxing launched in China in 2012 and has quickly become a huge player in the global ridesharing game — it has since bought out Uber's Chinese operations and has stakes in numerous companies, including Ola, Taxify, Lyft and Grab. To get your two half-price DiDi trips — from now until Sunday, January 31, 2021 — download the app (for iOS or Android) and use the code EXPLORE. Find out more about current interstate border restrictions over here.
