It's been a whirlwind time for Sydney's hospitality scene. This time last year, two of the city's favourite restaurants announced they'd be closing their doors within weeks of each other. First, it was Enmore Road's beloved neighbourhood diner Hartsyard, followed by Chippendale's longstanding hatted restaurant Automata. While it's always tough to see your favourites close, the dust has now settled with a host of exciting new opportunities springing forward from the turnover. Automata's Clayton Wells is running Mod Dining at the Art Gallery of NSW and is now the Group Creativity Director (Culinary) at Public Hospitality, Hartsyard's Dot Lee and Jarrod Walsh have taken over the food and drink operations at The Old Clare and finally, Wells' old Automata digs have now been transformed into Longshore, Lee and Walsh's new seafood restaurant and wine bar. The dining room has been given a makeover by design firm Guru Projects which maintains the sleek welcoming atmosphere that Automata boasted, welcoming up to 80 guests at a time for lunch and dinner. The menu can be approached from a few different angles, but the ideal way is to head in with an open mind and tackle one of the set menus that spotlights fresh and sustainable produce from both the sea and the land. "We're thrilled to be opening Longshore and bringing the suburb's first wine bar and restaurant to Chippendale," says Walsh. "Our menu is inspired by coastal ingredients and techniques from around the world, and we're excited to showcase the best of what our local producers have to offer." The centrepiece of the kitchen's offerings is an $80 experimental ten-course snack flight. If you're someone who loves to try a bit of everything, this is for you. Sample your way through the hot and cold elements of the menu including coral prawn tartlet with shellfish mayo, pickled Jervis Bay mussels, kangaroo tartare, glazed green lip abalone crumpets, Margra lamb ribs and salt and vinegar potato scallops. There's also a more standard a la carte menu and a pair of larger tasting menus — a $150 five-course degustation for dinner or a $100 three-course set menu for lunch. Other highlights to keep an eye out for include cured yellowfish tuna, dry-aged swordfish steak with XO butter and Westholme wagyu tri-tip with bone marrow sauce. As with Hartsyard, the drinks list is also integral to the Longshore experience. The wines focus on a diverse range of sustainable producers that make crisp drops destined to be paired with some fresh seafood. The cocktails also have a sustainable streak, like the strawberry old-fashioned which uses a zero-waste, house-infused strawberry whisky. The open-plan dining room provides the best spot in the house, with prime views of the kitchen, but if you're on the hunt for somewhere in Chippendale to pop in to discover your next favourite wine paired with a few next-level snacks, there's also 12-seat al fresco area for short stays. Then, you can always head up to The Old Clare's rooftop bar for a poolside cocktail. [caption id="attachment_905602" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] Longshore is located at 5 Kensington Street, Chippendale. It's now open for lunch Friday–Sunday and dinner Thursday–Saturday and Monday. Images: Jason Loucas
This article is part of our series on the 17 most unique things to have come out of Japan. Check out the other 16. A brilliant brewer in Hokkaido has created an actual blue beer. We’re not talking brown beer with a blueish tint only visible with binoculars. But bluer-than-blueberries kind of blue. The shade comes from two sources: local flowers and seaweed. Plus, for good measure, there’s a casual dash of water from melted icebergs, off the Sea of Okhotsk. Chinese yam has been added to create the beer's head — according to the beer’s page on Firebox.com, it “resembles floating ice”. "To sip this beautiful blue brew is to immerse yourself in the wild and colourful flavours of the frozen Abashiri coastline," the page states. The brewery behind this innovation is Abashiri. It made headlines back in 2007 with the creation of BILK. As the name suggests, it’s a combination of beer and milk, which is low in malt and tastes quite fruity. BILK was invented when a bunch of nearby dairy farms ended up with too much milk and were planning on throwing it all out. After the son of a local bottle shop manager heard this, he approached the folks at Abashiri, suggesting that they consider using the milk in the brewing process. Abashiri Blue Beer has been around for a few years, but only became available outside of Japan last year.
The family-owned Portuguese institution has made it seven full years around the sun — and to celebrate, Tuga Pastries is throwing a huge block party at both of its pastry-slinging outposts. On Sunday, May 26, you can hit up either the Clovelly or Alexandria locale for top-quality Portuguese pastries paired with hot-off-the-grill barbecue. Not only will the joint's coveted sweet treats, like its famous pastel de natas, coconut brioche and almond tart, be on offer, but you'll also be able to sink your teeth into limited-edition specials made specially for its birthday celebrations. As part of its Portuguese showcase, the crowd-pleasing venues will be dishing up traditional patas de veado (a sponge and custard dish shaped like a deer hoof), decadent russos (vanilla custard sandwiched between two thin layers of puff pastry), malasadas (a Portuguese take on donut balls and loukoumades), and duchesses (an eclair with a sweet egg custard and whipped cream filling). This one-day celebration is perfect for the family — there'll be a petting zoo, face-painting station for the kids (or grown-ups embracing their inner child) and DJs spinning live tunes. You're also welcome to bring your beloved pooch along to join the party.
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, released Friday. 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 cities like Dublin, Manchester and Bristol before popping over to European hubs like Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. Then it's over to the US and Canada for a gargantuan string of dates before heading home for his national Australian headliner tour through major cities and regional centres like Geelong, Port Macquarie and Wollongong. Supporting for all national tour dates is New Zealand dream pop trio Yumi Zouma, whose four-track EP The Brae saw the Christchurch locals gain quite the following on Soundcloud. In the wake of the tour's long-awaited announcement, we had a chat to the 25-year-old Melburnian about his upcoming worldwide debut album tour, his Melbourne performance jinx, jogging on tour and a genuine disdain for pigeonholes. When was the last time you played an Australian show? Three weeks ago. I play heaps here, everyone thinks I don't. They're like, "Really? Come back to Australia and support your home." It's like, I play here a lot. People are like, "Why didn't you come to New Zealand?" I was there four weeks ago! "Hopefully one day you'll come to Ireland." It's like dude, I'll be there in a week. Just relax! So Built On Glass is out, your first LP, congrats! You played everything you hear on the album, excepting one guitar solo. What made you want to play all every last instrument on your new album? Well, because I knew what I wanted to be played. And I'm not rich so I can't just like, pay Nile Rodgers to lay down a track for me. It's just a really personal record. Music just means a shitload to me. I'm usually writing music at the same time I'm recording it... just trying a bunch of stuff. If I want a guitar part, I'm going to play it because I'm there. So it makes sense to play it myself rather than have someone in and it might not work. Did you learn saxophone just for the record? No. Well, maybe sort of. I played sax from prep to grade two. But I hadn't played until last year and I picked it up and could still make a noise out of it. That blew me away. I had no idea that I could still play saxophone. I assumed I couldn't play it, I couldn't remember what notes they were. I picked it up and because I'd learnt 'Tequila' — that was the last song I'd played — I was like bam-bam ban-am-bam ban-a-nam and I was like "What the FUCK?". It was insane! Because there's other stuff as a kid I can't remember how to do, you know? Like cartwheels... Cartwheels, totally yeah. I used to be a really good drawer when I was a kid but I'm not that good at it any more. I used to be able to do a really good cat. Actually I still remember how to do it — it looks like Bubsy, which was a game on Super Nintendo. That's funny, I haven't thought about that in a long time. With your first EP you were kind of sleeping in the same space that you were recording. But this time you had your own space to record Built On Glass? Yeah, I rented a space in North Melbourne in the old meat market. It's an old cooling locker, so it's heritage-listed. It's through Arts House Victoria, so it's really cheap rent, it's cool... We have so much space and I just don't use it. I filled it with stuff and ended up putting myself in the smallest room. I rarely stand up when I'm recording music, most of the time I'm sitting on a chair. I can't remember the last time I stood up to record vocals. I lean into the microphone and I sit in front of the computer. I'll take, sing it, listen back and do it again until I get it right. Well, your voice has a lot of oomph and power behind it, which you usually need to stand up to reach. Well, on this record anyway. The EP was lighter I think, more breathy because I was in my garage. It had a tin roof and in the garage next door to me we had a neighbour. I would usually record late at night and I couldn't sing loud. Whereas on this record, because I have my own soundproof space, I could be there any hour of the night and play as loud as I want and not piss anyone off. So all the vocal tracks are like, full chest voice. I literally couldn't have done this album in the old garage because I couldn't sing that loud. https://youtube.com/watch?v=aP_-P_BS6KY Stylistically Built On Glass is very different, each song is quite unique even though they've got your unifying vocal. Some are hip hop influenced, some are ballads, some are almost house music. How do you find inspiration for each style? I've had this thing, like, all my life: I hate being put in a pigeonhole. More than anything, for some reason. I don't know why it annoys me so much. As soon as you label something you limit it. And I don't want to be limited. An album is usually very definitive, you know? That's the big thing, about making a 'statement' right? So my statement was I wanted to show almost every type of music that I like, because then if I did something like the slow, whatever people call it, "RnB crooner" — it makes me cringe when I hear that, it's gross — style, then I'd limit it. Because if I bring out another record that's like '1998', which I like just as much, people would go, "What the fuck is this?" So it was really important to me that I show the full breadth of all the things I like. Sounds like a good way to go for a debut album. Well that's the idea. Built On Glass as well, the whole "built" thing comes from like, building a career, building a future on a foundation stone of glass, which is fragile, it's honest, it's transparent — this is what I'm into, you know? And it was annoying me that people thought I only did soulful, slowed down tunes. There's even some house moments in there. Yeah, well 'Cigarettes and Loneliness" is 135BPM. That is not soul music. It's hard to pick a track off your debut album, but do you have a particular song you're especially proud of? 'Cigarettes and Loneliness' I think. I mean, they all have their own reason I like them. 'Gold' is the first song I ever played bass on and it's just one note the whole time. I didn't know how to play the bass, so I bought a bass. What I wanted to do was a descending bassline but I couldn't play that properly. But then 'Release Your Problems', which is the first track, I played the bass on that. First bassline I ever really wrote. '1998': house track — I always wanted to put out a house track. 'Cigarettes and Loneliness' is the longest song I've ever done, it's the most honest song I've ever done. The chorus has no drums, it's just two guitar parts and vocals. The song's like eight minutes long and it's 135BPM which is just super fast. You couldn't even play that in a DJ set, it'd freak people out. It's been two years since your first EP Thinking in Textures came out, since then you've won awards, worked with Flume, supported big names, had your song in a Super Bowl ad... Yeah, I always forget about that until people bring it up. That's like the least real thing that's ever happened to me. That's like, really? Was I really in a Super Bowl ad? It's like the childhood memories that you're not really sure if you made it up or it actually happened. https://youtube.com/watch?v=vUsxibgWMs4 You've been touring on and off for about two years, what's one of the most memorable performances you've done? Well, there's different ones for different reasons — there's good ones and then there's like, bad ones. Touring with Bonobo was awesome. I've got mad respect for him. He just texted me the other day, he was like, "What are you doing? You wanna go get a drink?" For a second I had to be like, that's fuckin' Bonobo texting me. That was pretty weird, I had to pinch myself. That tour was cool, I think this tour in June's also going to be heaps of fun. And you toured with Flume as well. Toured with Flume, yeah that was good. Ah... it was alright. They were just like, munted kids who weren't listening. But actually it was fun playing with Flume, because I'd get up and sing with him, that was shitloads of fun. So I crowdsurfed — and you don't crowdsurf to my music. I never had. So that was a lot of fun, stagediving. Did they bring you back to the stage? Yeah, I mean sometimes you get taken away. Here's a lesson for anyone who's going to stagedive: take off any jewellery or hats, people literally rip stuff off you. And I got like, mouth raped at one of those shows on that Flume tour. I don't know if it was a boy or a girl, someone just grabbed my head upside down and did like a Spiderman tongue dash. I was like, woah. By the time I looked, I was somewhere else. It was kind of funny though, but it was an all ages show so its just a bit like... yeeech. https://youtube.com/watch?v=6vopR3ys8Kw If you could tour with anyone in the world, who would it be? Bonobo was pretty up there. Music style-wise, I feel like it's pretty similar. I always looked up to him, awesome crew and band, they really inspired me. Like, some people just aren't as… Just because you love someone's music doesn't mean you like them personally and that was a big lesson for me. And most people won't know that. You know, most people who like my music will assume that them and I would get along perfectly but I'm certain there are people I wouldn't get along with. It's like the same with anyone. So I've met lots of people, I mean, Bonobo, he's as nice as his music is, he's a gentleman. But there's other people I've met that I really liked, I was like, you... are... you are a dickhead. So you've got this rather epic tour coming up, how do you prepare and keep healthy on tour? Are there any tricks? Totally, you have to look after yourself. I do. I actually don't know how some people party on tour all the time. It's not sustainable, like, you just get totally bummed out. Some people can do it though. Some people just figure out this like, route in their brain to not come down from partying. They just party forever. Like DJs, those dudes kill it. I don't know, I couldn't do that. Do you get actual sleep on tour? No. Well, yes if I try and sleep and eat well, but that's not really an option either. It's this weird balance because some people just think you're difficult if you're like "I need celery and gluten free food backstage." They're like, "Geez, this guy's a douchebag." But if you're having a hot dog every night for three months, you start to feel really crappy about yourself. But running is good, I try and go for a run every morning. It's just habit, which is easy to do on tour because it's easier to create new habits in a new environment than one that has existing habits. Do you write on tour? You were saying you write and record at the same time. I can't. I'm trying to at the moment; I'm trying to get a little studio built up. But I really like having a space, but that's not really an option any more when you're touring so much. So I'm getting this little case made up with like, a microphone and a laptop. Harley's so good at it, Flume, he's always working on a track. I can do it, it's just like a habit. I'm trying to start doing that more. It's going to be cool for you to play in Melbourne and show off your debut album to home. Yeah, totally and I don't think I've ever played a good show in my home town. I keep fucking it up. I mean it's my friends there, that's why. I played a bunch of festivals — I mean I think as far as my friends are concerned I suck live, because I keep messing it up for my friends in Melbourne — like, at Laneway I played a bad show, I messed up Meredith and Golden Plains. I had technical problems — I had a broken foot. It's like I'm jinxed in my home town but this tour will be fine, sooner or later I'll do it. Tour Dates: Tickets on sale Tuesday 22 April 9AM local time Thu 12 June – The Wool Exchange, Geelong $35 +BF. Tickets from Oztix. Friday 13 June – Forum Theatre, Melbourne $35 +BF. Tickets from The Forum Box Office, Ticketmaster. Thu 19 June – Astor Theatre, Perth $35 +BF. Tickets from Astor Box Office. Sat 21 June – The Tivoli, Brisbane $35 +BF. Tickets from Ticketmaster. Sun 22 June – Lake Kawana Community Centre, Sunshine Coast $35 +BF. Tickets from Box Office. Tue 24 June – Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie $35 +BF. Tickets from the Glasshouse Box Office. Wed 25 June – Civic Theatre, Newcastle $35 +BF. Tickets from Box Office and Ticketek. Fri 27 June – Enmore Theatre, Sydney $35 +BF Tickets from Enmore Theatre Box Office and Ticketek Sat 28 June – Anita's Theatre, Wollongong $35 +BF. Tickets from Ticketmaster. Thu 3 July – HQ, Adelaide $35 +BF. Tickets from Moshtix and Oztix. Sat 5 July - The Odean, Hobart $40 +BF. Tickets from Ticketmaster and Ruffcut Records.
Born out of a desire to bring old-school hospitality back to the eastern suburbs, Café Bellagio is a well-liked local which has recently expanded to offer dinner with a touch of French and Spanish influence. Located in the old Albion Cycles store, it's a neat, laidback space with banquets, cushions and plenty of greenery. You can start with a selection of cheeses or a charcuterie plate ($28), which includes slices of salami, aged wagyu and piquant Cinghiale sausage as well as house-pickled vegetables and a moreish chicken liver pate. The slices of bread are airy (from their sister cafe Nelson Road Tuckshop), and the salty smoked butter is ideal. The menu starts with smaller options, like the trio of flavour-packed salt cod croquettes ($15); the flakes of pickled chilli and shaved mojama, a Spanish salt-cured tuna, really takes the dish up a level. Also good is the charred cumin cauliflower ($18), which comes resting on a thick bed of paprika and tomato puree, with tahini buttermilk crisscrossed over them. The European influence continues into the larger share plates, which include confit duck ($22). The meat is tender and paired with elements of sweetness in the heirloom carrots and poached plum, as well as crunch in the form of black barley. Another, braised oxtail ($24), is rich and hearty and prettily plated, with swirls of crisp parsley, a dollop of parsnip puree and a drizzle of coffee jus. You'll also want to hang around for dessert, which once again adds another unusual ingredient — here, finger lime — to great effect. A sprinkling of the zesty pearls add a taste of native tucker to a deconstructed rhubarb cheesecake ($13) with crunchy notes of ginger and butterscotch. There are also a couple of cocktails on offer, including an old fashioned made with Maker's Mark, raw sugar and orange bitters. The wine list is mostly Australian with the odd Spanish or French glass. You can't go wrong with a light 2015 Foster e Rocco Sangiovese ($11) or a zesty clos Clare Riesling ($13). With a cosy feel and some welcome touches of Mediterranean flair, Café Bellagio has skilfully expanded from friendly local café to superior neighbourhood bistro.
Following successful monthly editions, Ryde Wharf Market is doubling down this month — literally — with a fortnightly iteration. On the second and fourth Sunday of every month, the Parramatta River foreshore of Anderson Park in Meadowbank will come to life with market stalls showcasing a range of Sydney's favourite homegrown creatives and makers. Get fuelled with a coffee from Barista's Lab and a deliciously dense bagel from Brooklyn Boy Bagels before you browse over 70 stalls featuring fresh fruit and veggies, flowers, gourmet produce, pantry items and locally designed homewares, apparel and gifts. There'll also be plenty of hot food options from paella to gozleme and dumplings, as well as activities for little ones, including a fishing game, arts and crafts and a jumping castle. Not only is it a picturesque spot to while away a Sunday morning, but it's easy to get to, too. Anderson Park is accessible by ferry, train or bus, with ample parking within a short stroll. Ryde Wharf Market takes place at Anderson Park, Meadowbank, from 9am–2pm on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. For more info, head to the website.
Sydneysiders can now sip some of the world's best cocktails from 22 stories up thanks to the opening of a new cocktail bar inside the A by Adina Hotel. Dean & Nancy on 22 is the latest opening from the team behind Maybe Sammy, Sydney's award-winning cocktail bar previously named one of the top 50 bars in the world. The new Hunter Street spot plays on the idea of a hotel bar. Inventive cocktails in line with the theme include the Rolling A Double cocktail, combining Havana 3, pineapple shrub coconut water and rhum agricole, with a pair of dice. Roll a double on the dice and you'll receive a free champagne upgrade. Equally as unexpected is the coffee champagne, containing champagne, Mr Black, vodka and peach wine, as well as a house-made vanilla and coffee hand cream on the side. "Apply the cream to your hands and every time you sip the cocktail, you'll be treated to a waft of the scent," Dean & Nancy co-founder and Creative Director Andrea Gualdi says. "After we take the glass away the essence will remain and every time you use the cream, we hope you'll remember your time at Dean & Nancy and smile." Inside the hotel, a curved brass staircase leads you up to the venue where patrons are greeted by a panoramic view of the Sydney cityscape and a decadent 1950s-style hotel bar designed by architect George Livissianis. Livissianis has previously designed the likes of Chin Chin Sydney, The Dolphin Hotel and Maybe Sammy's other recent CBD venture, Sammy Junior. The 120-seat space is full of gold-veined marble tables accompanied by subdued black leather chairs. Each seat offers up show-stopping city views, so no-one has to cop the dud spot. As with both Maybe Sammy and Sammy Junior, snacking is encouraged at Dean & Nancy. In fact, on the menu created by Executive Chef Jane Strode (Bistrode, Rockpool, Langton's), you'll find a special selection of mini combos if you're looking for a light drink and bite to eat. Combine the mini martini with oyster nan jim, or mini adonis with rhubarb cheesecake. Larger meals are on hand, however, including a prawn risotto made with Meredith goats cheese and harissa made in-house. Dean & Nancy on 22 is located at Level 22, 2 Hunter Street, Sydney, 2000. It's open 4.30-midnight, Wednesday–Saturday. Bookings are available online, however bar stools are not reserved so walk-ins are available. Images: Steven Woodburn
We could all use a bit of a mood boost and if there's one surefire way to up those dopamine levels, it's a weekend spent lazing by the harbour, soaking up a taste of that luxe waterfront lifestyle. A holiday from reality, featuring sunshine, water vistas and maybe even a private pool. Well, dotted all around Sydney, you'll find chic harbourside retreats and beachfront villas you can call your own for a couple of nights, offering exclusive addresses and hard-to-match views. We've done the hard work for you and rounded up Sydney's most exclusive harbourside stays you can book right now. Choose a favourite, pack those bags and get ready to live your best-ever holiday life. Stylish Apartment, Pyrmont Taste the high life with a stay at this next-level apartment, kitted out with luxury features and boasting sweeping harbour views. From $1410 a night, sleeps six. Cloudbreak, Mosman This sprawling hillside home makes for one luxurious group getaway, complete with smart styling, an infinity pool and absolute water frontage. From $385 a night, sleeps two. The Boathouse, Kurraba Point Set right on the shoreline of Kurraba Point, this roomy retreat features both a sunny waterfront lawn and a boat shed-turned-entertaining space. From $1833 a night, sleeps six. Harbour Hideaway, Clontarf A bright, breezy coastal escape for two, set right on the shores of Clontarf. Enjoy barbecues on the spacious balcony, overlooking the beach. From $499 a night, sleeps two. Camp Cove Tropical Retreat, Watsons Bay Your own tropical oasis, set just metres from Camp Cove Beach, featuring modern styling, a pool and leafy private garden. From $300 a night, sleeps three. Postcard View, Kirribilli A spectacular apartment on the water edge with direct view of the iconic Opera house and Sydney Harbour Bridge. With ideal views and luxe furnishings, this is the perfect stay for immersing yourself in the Harbour city. From $491 a night, sleeps four. Manly Beach Views, Manly Centrally located with a two minute walk from Manly Beach and Corso shopping strip, you'll have easy access to everything Manly has to offer - stunning views included. From $260 a night, sleeps two. Luxury Yacht Overnight Stay, Rose Bay Indulge yourself in a night of romance on board your own private French built Beneteau yacht moored in Rose Bay. On the waterfront with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background, it will be a stay to remember. From $517 a night, sleeps two. Balmoral Beach Beauty, Mosman This stunning absolute beachfront apartment offers magnificent views of Middle Harbour and Balmoral Beach. From $330 a night, sleeps two. Magnificent Waterfront Living, Double Bay Step into your own peaceful harbourside sanctuary complete with it's own private ten metre marina berth, when you stay in this chic Double Bay apartment. From $1008 a night, sleeps five. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb
If you, like us, spent most of last year ordering take out and binge watching Ted Lasso in your undies, there's a good chance your adrenal glands are in need of a proper work out. And, with the warmer weather slowly fading, there's no better time to line up a holiday in the tropics to stretch out your summer. One place that's filled with truly incredible activities for the thrill-seekers among us is Tropical North Queensland. From hiking through World Heritage-listed rainforest to abseiling down flowing waterfalls and camping on tropical islands, there's something for every type of adventure lover in this spectacular natural playground. So, if you're keen for a holiday that's adventure-filled, and want to support operators who are committed to sustainable tourism practices, hit this list of unmissable things to do in the region to ensure your extended summer is a slam dunk. [caption id="attachment_828484" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland.[/caption] ABSEIL DOWN WATERFALLS WITH CAIRNS CANYONING If Cairns Canyoning existed in 1994, we're convinced that TLC would have actually sung: "do go chasing waterfalls". With the help of expert guides, here you'll have the truly thrilling opportunity to abseil down waterfalls, hurl yourself from towering boulders into crystal-clear water and zipline through World Heritage-listed rainforest all in one trip. You can choose between the half-day adventures through Behana Gorge or Crystal Cascades or, if you're feeling a little more hardcore, sign up for the full-day Spillway Canyon trip. [caption id="attachment_829726" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raging Thunder[/caption] GET WET AND WILD ON A WHITE WATER RAFTING TRIP Imagine sitting on the edge of an inflatable raft as you float down a river through a spectacular gorge surrounded by World Heritage-listed rainforest. Sounds pretty incredible, right? Now, picture taking that same boat down steep ravines and raging rapids and you've got the wet and wild adventure that is white water rafting. In Tropical North Queensland, you can choose to conquer a number of courses on the region's world-class rafting rivers. For a full day of adventure filled with thrills and spills on 45 rapids, book a trip on the Tully River with eco-certified rafting company Raging Thunder. Or, if you'd prefer to, quite literally, test the waters on a shorter course, try the half-day trip on The Barron River. [caption id="attachment_829728" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH AT AUSTRALIA'S ONLY BUNGEE JUMP If you consider yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie, then visiting SkyPark is a must on your trip to Tropical North Queensland. Not only is it the one place in Australia where you can bungee, but you'll get to do so while being cradled by lush tropical rainforest. Located 15 kilometres north of Cairns, here you can leap from the 50-metre bungee that teeters over a stunning natural lagoon. Or, strap into the giant swing to reach speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour in just three seconds with up to two mates side by side. If you're not quite ready to take the bungee plunge, try the 140-metre-high walk-the-plank obstacle instead. Whether you're a seasoned jumper or are ready to take your very first leap, the 16 different styles on the jump menu will accomodate for all levels of thrill seeking and ensure you experience a rush like never before. [caption id="attachment_829729" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SAIL OVER TREETOPS IN AN OPEN-AIR GONDOLA If you want to get up close and personal with the oldest continually surviving rainforest in the world, make tracks to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway located 15 minutes north of Cairns. Aboard the cableway, you'll glide over the pristine jungle canopies between Smithfield and Kuranda, soaking in panoramic views of the rainforest and beyond before ending your trip near the banks of the heaving Barron River. You can also opt for the open-air Canopy Glider to sail top-down over the treetops with the expert guidance of a Skyrail Ranger or upgrade to the diamond view to experience a gondola with a glass floor. To maximise your adventure, combine your treetop adventure with the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway to see the sights from a different perspective on your round trip. Plus, if you want to help maintain the tropical rainforest, you can donate to the Skyrail Rainforest Foundation which distributes funds to research and education projects that help protect and conserve this natural wonder. [caption id="attachment_828482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] PUT YOUR STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING SKILLS TO THE TEST ON THE MOSSMAN RIVER Feel like you're pretty familiar with stand-up paddleboarding by now? Well, if you've managed to tackle the task atop local lakes and seas, it might be time to level up your balancing bravado with a paddleboarding trip on the Mossman River. The team at Wind Swell will take you on a three-hour trip upstream to soak in the sights and sounds of the buzzing tropical rainforest. Along the way, you'll learn about the local habitat, have a chance to try out some paddleboard yoga, taste exotic flavours of local tropical fruit and cool off in the freshwater swimming hole before floating back to base. And, if that's not enough adventure, check out the company's other tours in wing surfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding and more. [caption id="attachment_828487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GO KAYAKING WITH TURTLES IN PALM COVE Ever wanted to set off kayaking from balmy tropical beaches lined with palm trees? Well, at picturesque Palm Cove, approximately 25 minutes drive north of Cairns, you can. The Kayak Turtle Tour, run by Pacific Water Sports, is an unmissable half-day ocean adventure in Tropical North Queensland. Departing at 7am, you'll kayak across The Coral Sea to nearby Double Island and Haycock Island to spot green and hawksbill turtles basking in the coral reefs below. Then, you'll paddle further afield to sight rays and shovelnosed guitarfish (sometimes called shovelnose sharks) before making your way back to the shore at Palm Cove. [caption id="attachment_828491" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] FLOAT ABOVE THE HILLS IN A HOT AIR BALLOON To experience a truly exceptional adventure, sometimes you have to sacrifice a little sleep to make it happen. And, after returning from a trip with Hot Air Balloon, you'll be more than glad you got out of bed before the sun to see it rise over the magical Atherton Tablelands. Departing from Cairns's northern beaches and Port Douglas, this tour will take you approximately one hour west to Mareeba for your ballooning take off. Once afloat, you'll experience the soft colours of dawn as you glide high over the Atherton Tablelands, soaking in panoramic views of the region. You'll arrive back in Cairns between 9-9.30am, just in time for breakfast at one of the city's excellent cafes. [caption id="attachment_828494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] SEE A SMILE FROM A CROCODILE AT HARTLEY'S CROCODILE ADVENTURES If you've ever wondered what it would be like to have a close encounter with a real-life dinosaur, Hartley's Crocodile Adventures is about as close as you can get. Located between Cairns and Port Douglas at Wangetti, this eco-certified tourism operator has plenty of thrilling crocodile action that'll get your heart racing. For $43, your park pass includes a cruise with crocs at the on-site lagoon, access to the daily wildlife presentations such as crocodile feedings, snake shows and the nail-biting crocodile attack show. Plus, if one dinosaur-like creature isn't enough, you can also check out the cassowary feeding. Or, if you want keep things cuddly, make sure you stop by the koala talk. [caption id="attachment_828495" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] GET OFF THE MAINLAND WITH CAMPING AT DUNK ISLAND Camping on a tropical island might seem like it's reserved for films and fantasies. But, in Tropical North Queensland, you can make it your reality at Dunk Island in the Family Islands National Park. Drive two hours south of Cairns to the idyllic coastal town of Mission Beach. Then, take a ten-minute ride across the glittering Coral Sea with Mission Beach Charters to Dunk Island where you can pitch a tent at one of only eight sites on the island. The campground comes with all the essentials — picnic tables, barbecue facilities, hot showers, drinking water and a loo — but, you'll need to take everything else with you. Pack snorkelling gear to catch the marine life in action at Muggy Muggy Beach, a good pair of walking shoes to complete the 11-kilometre Island Circuit hike, and plenty of food to refuel and enjoy on the sands of this tropical paradise. [caption id="attachment_828496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Tropical North Queensland[/caption] HIKE THROUGH RAINFOREST TO THE SPECTACULAR NANDROYA FALLS If you consider yourself a bit of a hiking fanatic, taking the 6.6-kilometre trek through the spectacular Wooroonooran National Park to Nandroya Falls is essential while in Tropical North Queensland. Not only will you get to walk through the incredible Wet Tropics World Heritage-listed rainforest, you'll get to wash off under a thriving waterfall, too. Start from the Henrietta Creek campground where you'll venture 700 metres into the rainforest to the start of the circuit fork. Take the right-hand track to take in smaller waterfalls, rock pools and rapid streams before reaching the immense Nandroya Falls. Cool off with a swim and enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls before completing the circuit and heading back to camp. Ready to book your tropical escape? For more information and to discover more about a holiday in Tropical North Queensland, visit the website. Image: Nandroya Falls, Tourism Tropical North Queensland
Josh and Julie Niland have had a busy few years. From opening a new Fish Butchery takeaway eatery in Waterloo, announcing they would be taking over The Grand National Hotel and moving Saint Peter into the space, and Josh being named in the world's top 100 best chefs, you'd be hard-pressed to find a busier hospitality couple in this country right now. Not satisfied with all of this, the world-renowned sustainable seafood duo have just announced a new restaurant Peterman, that's coming to Sydney's North Shore in 2023. Set to swing open its doors on Chandos Street in St Leonards in February, Petermen will be a 60-seat restaurant and bar. The name is a nod to the Saint Peter ecosystem. The original Niland restaurant — one of Concrete Playground's 15 best Sydney restaurants — is named after the patron saint and former fisherman Saint Peter. This holy seafood enthusiast was then the inspiration behind fellow fishers being called Petermen in the 1400s. [caption id="attachment_826817" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Saint Peter[/caption] As with all Niland establishments, the menu will champion boundary-pushing and sustainability-focused growers and producers. While the menu hasn't been finalised yet, it will continue the trend of Saint Peter, Fish Butchery and Charcoal Fish, skewing heavily towards seafood partnered with fresh Australian vegetables. This will mark Josh and Julie Niland's first venture west of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, bringing the duo's collection of Sydney outposts to five. It's also now been revealed that their revamp of the Grand National Hotel — set to be called Saint Peter Hotel — is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2023. The Nilands are hoping to open reservations for Petermen at the beginning of next year. We'll be sure to update you with more information on both Petermen and Saint Peter Hotel when it's announced. If you're looking for an excuse to try Josh Niland's utterly inventive and flavoursome seafood creations, the chef is hosting a four-course whisky-paired feast at Saint Peter in December in collaboration with Talisker. [caption id="attachment_826359" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Niland, Charcoal Fish[/caption] Petermen will open at 66 Chandos Street, St Leonards in February 2023 — we'll update you with an exact launch date when one is announced. Top image: Rob Palmer.
Two decades ago, Bill Nighy won two BAFTAs in the same year for vastly dissimilar roles: for playing a rock 'n' roll singer belting out a cheesy Christmas tune in Love Actually, and also for his turn as a journalist investigating a political scandal in gripping miniseries State of Play. The beloved British actor has achieved plenty more across his career, including collecting an eclectic resume that spans an uncredited turn in Black Books, a pivotal part in Shaun of the Dead, and everything from Underworld and Pride to Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I (plus stepping into David Bowie's shoes in the TV version of The Man Who Fell to Earth). Somehow, though, Nighy made it all the way into his 70s before receiving a single Oscar nomination. He didn't emerge victorious at 2023's ceremony for Living, but his recognition for this textured drama isn't just a case of the Academy rewarding a stellar career — it's thoroughly earned by one of the veteran talent's best performances yet. Nighy comes to this sensitive portrayal of a dutiful company man facing life-changing news with history; so too does the feature itself. Set in London in 1953, it's an adaptation several times over — of iconic Japanese director Akira Kurosawa's 1952 film Ikiru, and of Leo Tolstoy's 1886 novella The Death of Ivan Ilyich, which the former also takes inspiration from. That's quite the lineage for Living to live up to, but Nighy and director Oliver Hermanus (Moffie) are up to the task. The movie's second Oscar-nominee, Nobel Prize-winning screenwriter Kazuo Ishiguro, unsurprisingly is as well. Also the author of The Remains of the Day and Never Let Me Go, he's at home penning layered stories with a deep focus on complicated characters not being completely true to themselves. When those two novels were turned into impressive pictures, Ishiguro didn't script their screenplays, but he writes his way through Living's literary and cinematic pedigree like he was born to. A man of no more words than he has to utter — of no more of anything, including life's pleasures, frivolities, distractions and detours, in fact — Williams (Nighy, Emma.) is a born bureaucrat. Or, that's how he has always appeared to his staff in the Public Works Department in London County Hall, where he's been doing the same job day, week, month and year in and out. He's quiet and stoic as he pushes paper daily, overseeing a department that's newly welcoming in Peter Wakeling (Alex Sharp, The Trial of the Chicago 7). It's through this fresh face's eyes that Living's audience first spies its central figure, adopting his and the wider team's perspective of Williams as a compliant and wooden functionary: a view that the film and its sudden diagnosis then challenges, as Williams does of himself. As Ikiru was as well, and as The Death of Ivan Ilyich's name made so apparent, this is a tale of a man dying — and, while confronting that fact, finally living. In Hermanus and Ishiguro's hands, sticking close to Kurosawa and his collaborators before them, this story gets part of its spark from a simple request by local parents for a playground. Before learning that he has terminal cancer, Williams behaves as he always has, with the women making their plea sent from department to department while he does only as much as he must. Afterwards, grappling with how to capitalise upon the time he has left, he wonders how to leave even the smallest mark on the world. Living isn't about a big, impulsive response to one of the worst developments that anyone can ever be saddled with during their time on this mortal coil, except that it is in Williams' own way; when your reaction to hearing that you have mere months left to live is "quite", any break from routine is radical. This isn't a cancer weepie, not for a second. It also isn't an illness-focused film where someone's health struggles come second to the feelings and changes experienced by those around them. Williams' colleagues notice his absence when he stops showing up to the office, of course. One, the young Margaret Harris (Aimee Lou Wood, Sex Education), accompanies him on unexpected away-from-work outings and advises that she'd nicknamed him 'Mr Zombie'. Living is about those instances — the fancy lunches that Williams treats himself to, the nights out drinking with new pals (Tom Burke, The Wonder) he never would've contemplated before, the flouting of his lifelong monotonous routine, and the efforts to go above and beyond that he's now willing to take — rather than about an ailing man's family and acquaintances facing loss. Indeed, given that Williams doesn't want to interrupt his son (Barney Fishwick, Call the Midwife) and daughter-in-law (Patsy Ferran, Mothering Sunday) with his condition, Living is firmly invested in someone navigating their swansong on their own terms. At the heart of this ruminative film, and Williams' post-diagnosis behaviour, sits one of the most fundamental existential questions there is. Knowing that death is looming so soon and so swiftly, what can possibly provide comfort? That's a query we all face daily, most of us just on a longer timeline — context that makes Williams' way of coping both resonant and highly relatable. Life is filling each moment with anything but reminders that our here and now is fleeting, albeit not in such a conscious and concerted manner. Living's boxed-in imagery, constrained within Academy-ratio frames and gifted a handsome, period-appropriate but almost-wistful sheen by Hermanus' Moffie and Beauty cinematographer Jamie Ramsay (also the director of photography on See How They Run), helps visually express a crucial feeling: of being anchored within a set amount of space and discovering how to make the most of it. When Rashomon, Seven Samurai, Throne of Blood, Yojimbo and Ran great Kurosawa stepped through this terrain, he did so with one of his frequent players: Takashi Shimura. There's a particular sense of potency in telling this tale with a familiar figure, as Nighy also is, hammering home how truly universal this plight is no matter the specifics. Nighy's performance toys with what viewers have come to know and expect from him, however. He's in reserved rather than twinkling and instantly charming mode — still, muted and melancholy, too — a facade for his character that says oh-so-much about the dedicated life that Williams has weathered, the solace he's found in it, his handling of his current situation and also the film's post-World War II setting. Conveying the difference between being and relishing so effortlessly and also so heartbreakingly, Nighy is a marvel, and one that the movie around him lives for.
The newest addition to Sydney's annual blockbuster cultural and arts festival, Vivid Food has just dropped its full program, announcing a slate of events celebrating the best of New South Wales' culinary scene — and pulling together big-name chefs from Sydney, Australia and beyond. As with the previously announced lights, music and talks programs, Vivid Food will run across the duration of the fest between Friday, May 26–Saturday, June 17. "This is a celebration of NSW food culture. If tourists are not coming to NSW for our food, they should be," said Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham. The lineup is multi-faceted, headlined by a two-week residency from New York chef Daniel Humm at Matt Moran's Aria. Humm, the owner of the three Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park, a restaurant that has previously sat at number one on the World's Best 50 Restaurants list, will take over the Aria kitchen between Tuesday, June 6–Saturday, June 17. Humm and company will be offering a nine-course tasting menu for $550, and a reduced lunch menu for $395. If you want to secure your spot, tickets go on sale on Friday, April 28. Similarly, international chefs will be taking part in a range of collaborations as part of the Vivid Chef Series. Singapore's Rishi Naleendre (Cloudstreet) is working with boundary-pushing plant-based fine diner Yellow, London's Jackson Boxer (Brunswick House) teaming up with Fred's, and Jeremy Fox (Rustic Canyon and Birdie G's in Los Angeles) cooking up a series of dinners at the Ace Hotel's new sky-high Mitch Orr-led eatery Kiln. The Vivid Fire Kitchen will be keeping you toasty throughout the winter festival with a selection of the world's best pitmasters including Firedoor's Lennox Hastie, Jess Pryles of Aussie Barbecue Heroes, Dave Pynt of Singapore's Burnt Ends and Byron Bay's Pip Sumback all cooking up a storm at The Cutaway in Barangaroo. Following a successful debut edition as part of last year's Vivid, the Vivid Sydney Dinner will return to the Ivy Ballroom in 2023. Eddie Perfect will host the night with performances from Montaigne, Julian Belbachir, Christine Anu and Kate Monroe being paired with eats from Merivale Executive Chef Ben Greeno and Danielle Alvarez (ex-Fred's). Rounding out the program is Chefs on the Harbour, a view-heavy overwater dinner on the luxury superyacht The Jackson with Nel's Nelly Robinson, plus popular chefs Khanh Ong and Mark Olive; Carriagework's Warakirri Dining Experience, at which the founder of Mudgee's Indigiearth Sharon Winsor will take you through a five-course meal celebrating Gadigal ingredients; Mary's Group's one-day HERE NOW food, wine and music festival; and the Vivid Rooftop Experience 32 floors up at Aster Bar. [caption id="attachment_898422" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aster Bar[/caption] Vivid 2023 runs between Friday, May 26–Saturday, June 17. Browse the full program at the Vivid website.
Here are some things that have happened in the stories of American writer David Sedaris: A man goes in search of a stuffed owl to give to his boyfriend for Valentine's Day. Befriending a taxidermist who confirms his interest in formerly alive creatures is strictly non-professional, the man finds himself in a London basement gazing at the 400-year-old preserved head of a 14-year-old girl and the skeleton of a 19th-century Pygmy. They raise questions, uncomfortable ones. Like, 'how much are they?' A man takes a job at Macy's department store as a Christmas elf named Crumpet. He encounters fistfights, vomiting and magnificent tantrums, children with modelling contracts and children with adjectives instead of first names. He tells a child that Santa has changed his policy, and no longer brings coal if you misbehave. Instead he will break into your house, steal all your appliances, and leave you alone, in the dark, with nothing. A father imagines his children forming a jazz quartet. Hoping to make the fantasy reality, the father gifts the son 'that guitar you always wanted'. The son, while regularly petitioning for a brand-name vacuum cleaner, had never mentioned a guitar. He takes lessons from an artistically thwarted midget, until one evening the son admits to his teacher that what we really wants to do is perform a medley of television jingles in the voice of Billie Holiday. David Sedaris has developed a cult-like following for penning insightful, satirical, real-life stories like those above. His latest book is entitled Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls. You could read it, if that is a thing you would like to do. You could also read Naked, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, Me Talk Pretty One Day or any of his other fine collections available at your local bookshop. A regular contributor to This American Life, Sedaris will be touring Australia and New Zealand in January 2014. You can sign up for exclusive pre-sales at his website. SYDNEY Sydney Opera House Saturday 18 January MELBOURNE Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Tuesday 21 January CANBERRA Canberra Theatre Centre Wednesday 22 January BRISBANE Brisbane Powerhouse – Powerhouse Theatre Thursday 23 January PERTH Perth Concert Hall Friday 24 January AUCKLAND Civic Theatre, Auckland Sunday 26 January https://youtube.com/watch?v=1msZQjwlebU
The force is set to be strong across streaming queues in 2023, with another new live-action Star Wars series on its way. Following three seasons of The Mandalorian so far — one of which is airing now — plus 2021–22's The Book of Boba Fett, and also 2022's Obi-Wan Kenobi and Andor, Ahsoka will give warrior, outcast, rebel and Jedi her own show. Even better: it now has a trailer and a release month. Rosario Dawson (Clerks III) returns as the limited series' titular figure, after playing the part in both The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett. If you're new to the character, she was Anakin Skywalker's padawan before he became Darth Vader — and, here, an ex-Jedi Knight who is determined to battle a threat to the post-Empire galaxy. Her latest exploits will hit Disney+ sometime in August. Ahsoka follows animated film Star Wars: The Clone Wars and the TV series it spawned, too, plus fellow animated show Star Wars Rebels — because yes, this franchise about a galaxy far, far away will keep spreading far and wide in this one. From the latter series, Star Wars aficionados will spot rebel crew member Hera Syndulla and former bounty hunter Sabine Wren. Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)) plays the former in Ahsoka, while Natasha Liu Bordizzo (Guns Akimbo) steps into the latter's shoes. Also among the familiar characters: fellow Jedi padawan Ezra Bridger from Star Wars Rebels, with Eman Esfandi (King Richard) doing the live-action honours. Ahoska's cast includes Ray Stevenson (RRR) and Ivanna Sakhno (The Reunion), and reports have been bubbling for years about Hayden Christensen returning as Anakin, as he did in Obi-Wan Kenobi. This is Disney+'s first series focused on a female Jedi; indeed, as a character, Ahoska has long been one of the few women among the franchise's Jedi ranks, dating back to 2008. Off-screen, The Mandalorian writer/director/executive producer Dave Filoni writes and executive produces Ahoska, with Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Colin Wilson, and Carrie Beck also doing the latter — all seasoned Star Wars veterans. Check out the trailer for Ahsoka below: Ahsoka will stream via Disney+ from August 2023 — we'll update you with an exact release date when one is announced. Images: ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd & TM. All Rights Reserved.
If sitting on the couch is a regular part of your viewing schedule, we now know which big-name films you'll be streaming in 2022. Get ready for eagerly awaited whodunnit sequels, all-star action flicks, Jamie Foxx fighting vampires, futuristic Korean sci-fi and Jennifer Lopez as an assassin — and, because the list of brand-new movies that Netflix will add to its platform this year tallies up at a whopping 86 titles, to see plenty more where they're all about to spring from. As it did for 2021, Netflix has just unveiled its full slate of new films for 2022. It's a something-for-everyone kind of lineup, which the streaming service's catalogue always is, but the rundown of newcomers is also stacked with highlights. One instant standout: Knives Out 2, Rian Johnson's follow-up to his glorious Daniel Craig-starring whodunnit from 2019. Yes, the now-former 007 is back as Detective Benoit Blanc, this time in Greece, and interrogating suspects played by a cast that includes Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Dave Bautista, Kathryn Hahn, Leslie Odom Jr and Kate Hudson. Netflix subscribers can also look forward to The Gray Man, which sees Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans team up in a thriller about CIA mercenaries; Day Shift, where the aforementioned Foxx plays a seemingly ordinary dad whose pool-cleaning job is a front for staking the undead; JUNG-E, the latest dystopian vision out of Korea from Train to Busan, Peninsula and Hellbound's Yeon Sang-ho; and Lopez's maternal John Wick-esque stint in The Mother, where she's a killer forced to come out of hiding to protect her daughter. [caption id="attachment_841834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Helen Sloan/Netflix © 2022[/caption] Or, there's also Blonde, a fictional portrait of Marilyn Monroe featuring No Time to Die's Ana de Armas as the real-life figure; acting-focused comedy The Bubble, with writer/director Judd Apatow amassing one of his usual all-star casts; the Jason Momoa-led Slumberland, about a space between dreams and nightmares; and Wendell & Wild, with Jordan Peele and Keegan-Michael Key voicing a stop-motion animation. Fresh from Nightmare Alley, Guillermo del Toro has a stop-motion animation musical version of Pinocchio in the works as well — and, for something completely different, Adam Sandler turns astronaut in Spaceman, from Chernobyl director Johan Renck. Also, White Noise reunites filmmaker Noah Baumbach with both Marriage Story's Adam Driver and Frances Ha's Greta Gerwig in an adaptation of Don DeLillo's book of the same name, while a new take on Roald Dahl's Matilda features Emma Thompson and Lashana Lynch, and springs from Tim Minchin's musical. And, Last Christmas' Paul Feig helms a fairytale fantasy starring Charlize Theron and Kerry Washington with School for Good and Evil. Because we're into February already, some of the flicks on Netflix's list already have release dates, if you're the type who likes plugging things into your calendar. They span films such as The Adam Project, a time-travel effort with Ryan Reynolds and Mark Ruffalo that hits on March 11; Against the Ice, which sends Game of Thrones' Nikolaj Coster-Waldau to Greenland from March 2; Choose or Die, the April 15-releasing horror flick about a curse includes Robert Englund (aka the OG Freddie Kruger) among its cast; and Senior Year, which drops on May 13, features Rebel Wilson and Alicia Silverstone, and follows a cheerleader who awakens after a 20-year coma. There's also a new Texas Chainsaw Massacre arriving on February 18, too. Among the movies that don't yet have set dates, Enola Holmes 2 will get Millie Bobby Brown to do more sleuthing, Interceptor sees Chris Hemsworth dealing with a nuclear missile attack, a new adaptation of Lady Chatterley's Lover stars The Crown's Emma Corrin, and Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello is the executive music producer on Metal Lords, about two kids starting a metal band. Plus, Dev Patel stars in and directs Monkey Man, Dakota Johnson leads a new version of Jane Austen's Persuasion, and Richard Linklater's Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood heads back to the summer of 1969. Netflix usually gives some of its new films cinema runs, as it did with the likes of The Harder They Fall, Passing, Red Notice, The Power of the Dog and Don't Look Up in 2021. So, while we see oh-so-much couch time in your future, you may be able to watch some of these flicks on the big screen as well. Check out Netflix's trailer for its 2022 films below: New movies will hit Netflix every week throughout 2022 — head to the streaming platform for its current catalogue. Top image: Courtesy of Netflix © 2022.
Vivid Sydney's 2018 program isn't only about the CBD light shows and the big name acts performing at the Opera House. This year, the City of Sydney is partnering with Vivid Sydney to fund an extensive list of independent live music shows called X|Celerate. The program will see some of Sydney's favourite local haunts showcase emerging artists with live gigs running from May 26 through June 16 — and the tickets are either dirt cheap or completely free. The events span from the CBD through to Newtown, Surry Hills, Redfern, Chippendale, Kings Cross, Camperdown and Darlinghurst. With a focus on grassroots acts — from rock, indie and jazz to funk, electronica and experimental, and even reggae and ska — each venue has specifically designed its lineup to bring you the best-of-the-best. Highlights include the Purple Sneakers 12th birthday party at The Lansdowne, a live tribute to Madonna at Freda's, queer icon Stereogamous' DJ set and aperitivo hour at The Dolphin and a George Harrison tribute band at Leadbelly, plus heaps of shows at Oxford Art Factory, Venue 505, World Bar and Golden Age Cinema. The gigs are all $25 and under and include heaps of free shows, too. X|Celerate is a partnership between the City of Sydney and Vivid Sydney that aims to enliven independent music venues across town. The program is one outcome of the City of Sydney's Live Music and Performance Action Plan, which has generated $3.2 million in small grants to live music and performing arts in Sydney since 2014. For more information, including full list of venues and program events, head to the Vivid Sydney X|Celerate website.
Green Square is about to get a whole new set of threads. Today, the City of Sydney Council has announced the five finalists in its Design Green Square competition. A total of 144 Australian and international designers submitted entries envisioning a new look for the burgeoning area, which is the nation's largest urban development and one of Sydney's fastest growing spots. Each submission was required to feature a new aquatic centre and a revamped Gunyama Park, incorporating synthetic playing fields, a children's playground and an outdoor fitness circuit. "We asked for a sustainable design that mingled swimming, running, training and spectating and could also be a place for nearby residents to relax and enjoy themselves," Lord Mayor Clover Moore said. "Architects and designers lodged their entries anonymously and were judged by experts in architecture and design. This proved very successful in a similar competition last year in which two young Sydney architects won the right to design Green Square Library and Plaza... I’m pleased to see that five Sydney architects have been chosen as finalists. This speaks volumes about the creativity and talent of the design community in our city." And the finalists are... DESIGN 109 - ANDREW BURNS ARCHITECT Howzat? An old-school white picket fence — a nostalgic reference to old school cricket matches — encircles a smooth, lawn-heavy oval shape, making a break with the Green Square grid and clearly indicating that this is the spot to leave your work worries far behind. DESIGN 126 - CULLINAN IVANOV PARTNERSHIP This design lets nature take over. Existing layers of concrete and asphalt are peeled back, allowing the area's original wetlands to rejuvenate. While they're busy growing, the blended aesthetic of this design provides an ancient setting for cutting-edge facilities. DESIGN 213 - CHROFI & McGREGOR COXALL Spend a day in the wild without the inconvenience of leaving the big smoke. Appearing somewhat like a 19th century landscape painting, this design envisions a trio of pools sunk beneath a vast, open space where migratory birds fly, wetlands species thrive, the sky views are uncluttered and fences are almost unseen. DESIGN 230 - ANDREW BURGES ARCHITECTS This one brings a touch of Bondi to the inner city. A fun combination of natural and manmade elements, the aquatic centre appears as a series of urban beach and harbour pools. Boardwalks provide a novel avenue for visitor access, while protecting the fragile wetlands environment. DESIGN 234 - TYP-TOP STUDIO (ANDREW DALY AND KEVIN LIU) This design is one for the fitness enthusiasts. A group of stacked, interleaved buildings transforms your daily workout into one seamless experience — run straight from the fitness circuit into the pool. Furthermore, the pools themselves will be interlinked and (get this) rearrangeable, offering varied depths and areas to meet different needs. The winner will be announced later this year. For more City of Sydney developments check out their proposed Amsterdam-inspired bike hub, new bike lane and $25 million creative space.
Whether you're a sports fanatic or not, it's hard to escape chat about the cricket at this time year. But among the in-depth analyses of certain plays and team strategy, comparison of players past and present and reliving of legendary moments in the sport's history, there is one tale that has long been ignored. In 1868, a group of Aboriginal Australian cricket players became the first Australian sports team to travel and play overseas. Beyond all expectations, the team did extremely well — they won as many games as they lost — and one particular player, Johnny Mullagh (born Unaarrimin), was lauded for his performance, which included scoring 1698 runs across the tour. The tour was a pretty remarkable feat, particularly given the climate of Indigenous affairs in Australia at the time, but the history books have, for the most part, failed to recognise it as such. That's exactly what this new play by screenwriter Geoffery Atherden (Mother and Son, BabaKiueria) and director Wesley Enoch (Black Diggers, Sydney Festival 2014 and Sydney Festival artistic director) aims to rectify. Black Cockatoo begins with a group of activists sneaking into a museum to hunt down (and expose) the story of Mullagh and his team. The play then shifts its focus onto that very story — it tracks the team's journey from regional Victoria to Lord's Cricket Ground and reveals the travesties that were unfolding at home while the team were away. This poignant play is premiering at Kirribilli's Ensemble Theatre as part of Sydney Festival 2020, before a five-night run at Parramatta's Riverside Theatres in February. It's part of Riverside Theatre's jam-packed 2020 schedule, which also includes Aboriginal musical comedy Bran Nue Dae (January 16–February 1), Les Misérables (February 14–29), Monty Python's Spamalot (March 19–22), Sydney Theatre Company's No Pay? No Way! (April 1–4) and the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala (April 22). To see the full 2020 lineup, visit the Riverside Theatres website. To see the full 2020 lineup, visit the Riverside Theatres website. Image: Christian Trinder.
In March this year, we brought you tidings of a new coastal track in southeast Sydney, which connects Pioneers Park in Malabar with Arthur Byrne Reserve in South Maroubra. Now, walkers in the area are to score another boon. In 2019, a new walkway will open, allowing you to stroll through a previously inaccessible section of the NSW Golf Club's course — all while soaking up incredible ocean views. The 950-metre track will connect the Henry Head Walking Track at Cruwee Cove Beach, which lies on the golf course's southern side, to a public car park on its northern side — opening up a new section of the coast that has been inaccessible to the public. It will hug the coast nearly all the way, taking in spectacular Cape Banks, and golfers will still be able to play unaffected. You can walk the trail in its own right or include it in a longer hike. At the southern end, it links with the Cape Banks Walking Track, which continues westwards to La Perouse through the Kamay Botany Bay National Park. The council is currently in talks with the neighbouring golf courses to extend the track up to Malabar — eventually, the idea is that the track will continue right on up the coast to link up to the Coogee to Bondi walk. The walkway's exact launch date is yet to be announced, but Randwick City Council has announced that construction has begun, so it should open sometime in 2019. Image: Bar Island Fort at La Perouse via Wikimedia Commons.
When mid-March rolls around next year, Sydney's Clark Island will play host to a weekend of vino, vino and more vino, all thanks to returning festival Wine Island. But that's just one boozy way that you can spend time on the Sydney Harbour spot come autumn. The second: a three-day celebration of Greek cuisine and culture from the same crew. Meet Greek Island, a weekend-long festival taking place between Friday, March 25–Sunday, March 27 — the very next weekend after Wine Island. The aim is to make this new fest feel like a Mediterranean holiday, something that's clearly been in short supply during the pandemic. In a case of faking it till you make it — to the real Greek islands, that is — the event will line Clark Island with Greek-style tavernas, as well as cocktail bars, a seaside stage and a spa. So, you'll be eating fried calamari, grilled octopus, spanakopita, souvlaki, gyros and loukoumades, then washing it all down with Greek beverages — including frouzo, aka frozen ouzo. And, you'll be dancing to DJs, and getting a hilltop massage. Alpha's Peter Conistis will be on food duty, alongside Kazzi Beach Greek, East 33 (yes, that means oysters), Lambda and Lookoomania — and live cooking demonstrations will also be on the menu. Drinks-wise, Drink Greek is curating the beverage list, which'll include Greek wines and sparkling from Attica, Arcadia and Macedonia; beers from Chios Island and Atalanti; and Greek-themed cocktails such as Santorini Sunsets and Mykonos Mules. DJs Tigerlily and Jolyon Petch will hit the decks, as will Daft Punk tribute act Discovery — the latter of which mightn't fit the Greek theme, but will still set a mood. Skewing far more traditional, live Greek music and dancing will also be on the bill. Parts of the island will be decked out to emulate the country in the spotlight, too, with the promise of Mount Olympus-themed stage area and a Santorini-themed spa. Trips to Greek Island will start with a cocktail on the boat ride over — and, if you're now keen for the kind of Mediterranean getaway you take when you're not really taking a Mediterranean getaway, the event is hosting two sessions per day. So, you can choose between 10am and 4pm tipples. There are three Wine Island ticket packages available, starting with the $99 'premium economy experience', which includes ferry transfers, a drink on your way over, and a branded beach tote and tumbler. Then there's the $199 'business class experience', which adds a Greek Island towel, access to the Corfu-style beach club, a meal voucher, and complimentary ouzo and wine tastings. Or, you can go all out with $3300 private waterfront cabanas for up to ten people. Greek Island hits Clark Island in Sydney Harbour from Friday, March 25–Sunday, March 27, 2022. Tickets go on sale at 12pm AEDT on Wednesday, November 24, with pre-sale from the same time on Monday, November 22. Images: Onecut Studios.
Opera on a regular stage is one thing, but opera performed on a floating openair theatre atop Sydney Harbour, under the stars? Well, that's some unforgettable stuff. Especially when it's Giuseppe Verdi's famed classic La Traviata that's being given the overwater treatment. The glamorous three-act show is the latest production announced as part of Opera Australia's Handa Opera series. It was set to pop up on the harbour in March 2020, but, because of COVID-19, it was postponed. Now, it has been announced that the show will (finally) go on in March 2021. Handa Opera has pulled over 400,000 guests since debuting with La Traviata back in 2012, its mix of drinking and dining options, breathtaking views and nightly fireworks making it one of Sydney's must-try cultural offerings. It's also considered one of the world's best openair opera venues. [caption id="attachment_729347" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'La Traviata' by Opera Australia[/caption] The upcoming season will see director Constantine Costi heading up a bold new production of La Traviata based on celebrated director Francesca Zambello's original. It tells the famously heartbreaking tale of a free-spirited Parisian courtesan and her tragic love affair with a nobleman. Expect to be wowed by a glittering nine-metre-high chandelier decked out with 10,000 crystals on stage, while world-class performers deliver soaring renditions of legendary tunes like 'Sempre Libera' and 'Brindisi'. Carmen, Aida and La Bohème are just some of the hits to grace the Handa Opera stage in recent years, with 2019's production of West Side Story selling a huge 62,000 tickets. La Traviata on Handa Opera will run from Friday, March 26 to Sunday, April 25. Tickets are on sale from the Opera Australia Box Office from $99.. Handa Opera's 2012 'La Traviata' by Lightbox Photography
Winter isn't just the frosty season, or woolly clothes season, or igloos-popping-up-at-every-bar season. It isn't simply soup season, roast season or mulled wine season, either. It's also prime hot chocolate season, not that there's ever a bad time to sip warm cups of cocoa. Only winter brings Australia's dedicated Hot Chocolate Festival, however. An annual favourite running for the entire month of August, this festival is held across three locations: the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and the Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie. While that's excellent news for Victorians, the fest also does an at-home component, sending out its flavours nationwide. And there are flavours — 31 of them, in fact, all ranging far beyond just swapping milk chocolate for dark or white chocolate. The festival's concept is 31 hot chocolate flavours over 31 days, with different varieties on offer each week in-person. The trio of chocolate havens only tease parts of the full list in advance, but this year's includes a nod to Barbie via a pink-infused hot chocolate, as well as an Iced Vovo hot chocolate that features chocolate iced doughnuts for dunking. Or, you can sip on a poached pear and hazelnut version, a dulce de leche churros hot chocolate and a Biscoff hedgehog variety. The Happy Vegemite hot chocolate includes handcrafted caramel koalas to dip, then enjoy the melty goodness. And the Harry Potter-inspired hot choc has a chocolate wand for doing the same. Other flavours come topped with waffles or pretzels, and there's even a puppachino carob iteration so that your dog can join in. This fest gets boozy, too. In 2023, that's happening via the salted caramel espresso martini hot chocolate, plus a dark chocolate variety called French Connection that features red, white and blue balls filled with cognac. And yes, the demand for these limited-edition hot chocs is hefty, with more than 6000 usually created across the three chocolateries per year. Each hot chocolate is made with hot couverture chocolate in dark, milk, white, ruby or caramel, then served with a giant handcrafted marshmallow. For those heading along physically, each site also does tasting sessions for $24, which lets you not only sample eight hot chocolates, but pick from 50-plus ingredients to create three hot chocolate spoons to take home. And for folks who can't make the visit, single-flavour at-home packs will survey a variety of this year's flavours. The 2023 Hot Chocolate Festival runs daily between Tuesday, August 1–Thursday, August 31 at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie, 1200 Great Ocean Road, Bellbrae; the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, 35 Old Healesville Road, Yarra Glen; and the Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie, 45 Cook Street, Flinders. You can also order at-home packs online via each store. Images: A Myszka.
When Baz Luhrmann's Australia hit the big screen in 2008, it debuted right here on home soil. Now that it has been reworked as a TV show, the exact same thing is happening. That series: Faraway Downs, a six-parter that was first announced in 2022 and is destined for Disney+ Down Under from November. For its big premiere, it'll make a splash at the first-ever SXSW Sydney Screen Festival, joining the program as its closing-night screening. Before streaming from Sunday, November 26, Faraway Downs will first be seen by audiences on Saturday, October 21, complete with Luhrmann in attendance. Nicole Kidman also just recently joined the SXSW Sydney bill for a discussion about her production company, which has been behind Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, The Undoing and more, but hasn't been announced as a guest at Faraway Downs' big unveiling. For 15 years, Australia has inspired a particular line of thought when it comes to Luhrmann's movies: they can't all be good ones, even if almost all of them are. Australia is the one outlier on his resume — the one film that doesn't live up to the spectacular Strictly Ballroom, Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!, The Great Gatsby and Elvis — so it's been given some tinkering and reimagining to return as Faraway Downs. "I was inspired to re-approach my film Australia to create Faraway Downs because of the way episodic storytelling has been reinvigorated by the streaming world," said Baz Luhrmann. "With over two-million feet of film from the original piece, my team and I were able to revisit anew the central themes of the work." "I am honoured to world-premiere Faraway Downs in Australia, the place that has inspired me and my work my entire life, and with a partner like SXSW who deeply recognises the intersection of film, television and music with storytelling," Luhrmann continued. [caption id="attachment_921555" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hugh Stewart[/caption] Combining two of the nation's biggest actors with one of its biggest filmmakers, Faraway Downs still stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, of course. If you need a refresher on Australia's plot — and therefore the new episodic version's plot, too — it follows English aristocrat Lady Sarah Ashley (Kidman, The Northman) after she comes into possession of an Aussie cattle ranch. To save it from cattle barons, she enlists the help of a drover (Jackman, The Son). That's just the overall gist, however, given that the sprawling movie also spans World War II and its impact, as well as the country's historical treatment of Indigenous Australians. Fittingly given the OG name — and as usually proves the case with Luhrmann's flicks — the cast includes a who's who of homegrown talent. As well as Kidman and Jackman, plus Brandon Walters (Mystery Road) as Nullah, everyone from Essie Davis (Nitram) and Bryan Brown (Hungry Ghosts) to Ben Mendelsohn (Secret Invasion), Jack Thompson (High Ground) and David Wenham (Elvis) features, as does the now-late David Gulpilil (Storm Boy) and Bill Hunter (The Cup). There's no sneak peek at Faraway Downs as yet, but you can check out original trailer for Australia below: Faraway Downs will close the 2023 SXSW Sydney Screen Festival on Saturday, October 21, then stream Down Under via Disney+ from Sunday, November 26, 2023. If you're keen to make the most of Australia's first SXSW, take advantage of our special reader offer. Purchase your SXSW Sydney 2023 Official Badge via Concrete Playground Trips and you'll score a $150 credit to use on your choice of Sydney accommodation. Book now via the website.
Uber is expanding its services in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, with new high-end and cost-effective ride options. Launched June 1, the new uberXL service is targeted at groups of up to six people. When requested, users will be picked up in an SUV or van, such as a Toyota Highlander, a Ford Explorer or a Nissan Quest. Alternatively, if you're looking for something a little bit swankier — but aren't keen to break the bank on uberBLACK — you can now order uberSELECT and connect with a driver in an upscale vehicle like an Audi A3, a BMW 3 series or a Lexus RX. Both uberXL and uberSELECT will be charged at 1.5x the cost of an uberX — although especially in the case of the uberXL, that's still a damn sight cheaper than you and your mates ordering two separate cars. In less exciting news, the ridesharing service is introducing a flat 55c booking fee on all rides, and is also raising the minimum fare rate in Sydney ($8 to $9) Melbourne ($6 to $7.50) and Brisbane ($6 to $7.50). "Following our recent roundtable listening discussions with driver-partners, we heard that an important improvement Uber could make to the driving experience would be increasing the minimum fare," said an Uber spokesperson. The booking fee, meanwhile, will be used to assist with "the operational costs associated with providing a ridesharing service."
Jello Biafra, the voice that defied the Reagan era as frontman of Dead Kennedys, is bringing his chaotic punk back to Australia. Inspired by The Stooges' performance at Iggy's 60th birthday bash, Jello set about immediately recording the first album with his new accompaniment. Audacity of Hype was well-received by new and old fans alike, enabling the production of two follow-up EPs and sophomore album White People and the Damage Done, the content of which dominates their setlist. Whilst his new musical troupe is not as confronting as DK were, fans can still expect to experience layers of guitar accompanied by the obligatory crashing of drums and impassioned vocals in Jello Biafra and the Guantanamo School of Medicine. Like true punks they do not hold back, tackling corruption, foreign policy and scandals through blunt lyrics punctuated by explosive rock. The rage of their lyrical content personifies itself in Biafra's onstage flailing and intensity. Catch them in Sydney for one stick-it-to-the-man night only on Saturday, May 18.
Each winter Vivid draws Sydney out of hibernation with a festival of light installations, talks, workshops and performances. Now in its tenth year, the festival is bigger and brighter than ever. From the illumination of major city landmarks to international acts and challenging ideas, there's a lot to pack into the 23 nights. With the help of our friends at YHA Australia, we've put together a rundown to help you navigate the festival. From what to see and do and to where best to eat and drink. [caption id="attachment_670002" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Sydney Harbour YHA rooftop[/caption] STAY With so much to see and do during Vivid, you'll want to be close to the action. Sydney Harbour YHA in The Rocks is the perfect home base; it's just a stone's throw away from the installations in The Rocks and walking distance to Circular Quay and the Botanic Gardens. It's also right in the thick of some of the most historic pubs in Sydney. The building combines modern comfort with the heritage of the area — it's set above archaeological remains of colonial Sydney. Choose from private or dorm rooms and head to the rooftop balcony to treat yourself to one of the best views in Sydney. From this bird's eye vantage point, you'll have an uninterrupted view stretching from the Harbour Bridge to the Sydney Opera House, Customs House and city buildings, all lit up for the festival. Grab a drink and settle in to soak it all up. If you'd prefer to stay a touch further away from the heaving Circular Quay, YHA also has locations in Sydney Central and Railway Square. Here, you'll be in walking distance of Haymarket (and its many dumplings, noodles and 30c cream puffs), Spice Alley and Darling Harbour's stunning light installations. All three YHAs are offering 20-percent-off during Vivid, too. [caption id="attachment_625341" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bodhi Liggett.[/caption] EAT You'll need to keep your energy levels up in order to fit in everything in during the festival. Luckily, there are heaps of great food options around. Start the day with quality coffee and a beautiful, picturesque breakfast at The Grounds of the City. If you're short on time, though, you can grab a cup of joe and a brekkie burger, bowl or muffin from the takeaway window. For lunchtime refuelling, head to La Renaissance Patisserie for house-made pies, baguette sandwiches and pastries. The tree covered courtyard is a sweet little place to retreat from the crowds for a little while. In The Rocks Centre behind Kendall Lane, you'll also find the Fine Food Store serving up sandwiches, salads and winter warmers like soups and stews. When the sun goes down, check out the new Bar Patrón by Rockpool for authentic Mexican eats, margaritas and views of the Vivid lights. Alternatively, head to The Morrison, located between The Rocks and Wynyard, for a mean sirloin steak or the $1 oyster happy hour from 6–7pm each Wednesday. And if you've really got cash to splash and a burning desire for views with some top eats, head to Cafe Sydney. Found above Customs House (which will be covered in a Snugglepot and Cuddlepie light show), this place serves up Australian haute-cuisine with a killer view. The restaurant also has a dedicated vegan menu for those looking for some fine dining that considers their dietaries. For another prime spot with more casual eats, head next door to Gateway — home to Neil Perry's Burger Project, Din Tai Fung, Four Frogs Creperie and Gelato Messina. DRINK The Rocks area is heaving with pubs — in fact, two of them, The Lord Nelson and The Fortune of War, lay claim to being Sydney's oldest. The best way to fit them all in is to head on a pub crawl — starting at The Lord Nelson, making tracks to the potentially haunted Hero of Waterloo, heading up to The Glenmore rooftop for excellent harbour views, passing by The Fortune of War and finishing up at the newly refurbished Orient. If you're after something more sedate and refined, hit Henry Deane, the rooftop bar at Hotel Palisade which boasts incredible views of the harbour and the lights of Vivid. Otherwise, check out Bulletin Place for intricately crafted cocktails, or cosy up at The Doss House, a new underground whisky bar set in an incredible heritage building in The Rocks. [caption id="attachment_624496" align="alignnone" width="1920"] James Horan.[/caption] SEE The projections onto the Sydney Opera House have been the crowning glory of the Vivid light display since the festival's inception. This year the sails will feature the work of artist Jonathan Zawada, blending everyday objects with the pictures inspired by the Australian environment. Meanwhile, Skylark makes use of the high rises around Circular Quay, featuring a custom-built laser atop the Harbour Bridge projecting onto buildings in a stunning light show every half hour. The Southern Pylon of the bridge will be lit with Bangarra Dance Company's Dark Emu, melding dance and art and paying homage to the agricultural knowledge of Indigenous Australians. [caption id="attachment_623212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] James Horan.[/caption] See bacteria writ large at Beautiful and Dangerous in The Rocks. The work takes you under a neon microscope to explore some of the deadliest diseases facing mankind and what's being done to curb them. While you're in the area, look skyward and see A Little Birdie Told Me — a work depicting the threat to many of our native bird species. The festival of light also makes full use of the glorious Botanic Gardens, with installations dotted throughout. Impressions shows a time-lapse of flora captured from the garden throughout the day, displayed across five huge canvases. Check out The Bloom, a giant metallic flower covered in LED pixels. And hanging in a canopy of trees is Hyperweb, a giant web combining light and soundscape. DO With so many artists and thinkers in town, you might want to extend your stay to fit more in. Top of the ticket is Solange, performing at the Sydney Opera House. Her shows are sold out, but festival organisers recommend checking the website daily for last-minute releases. Also in town are Grammy award-winning singer St Vincent and legendary rapper Ice Cube. There are heaps of local acts to check out too, including No Mono, Middle Kids and Stonefield. For one night only Heaps Gay will host a fabulous, not-to-be-missed fancy dress party, Qweens Ball, at Town Hall. Plus for a change of pace, this year's festival also includes a jazz series for the first time. [caption id="attachment_574541" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Bodhi Liggett.[/caption] Vivid Ideas will get your mind bubbling about the big issues. There are talks on everything from building a sustainable future and the threat to democracy to the art of creativity and understanding consciousness. For podcast nerds, the Audiocraft Podcast Festival features a line-up of industry heavyweights in a series of talks and workshops. If you're headed to Vivid this year, YHA is offering 20% off stays for Concrete Playground readers during the festival. The offer applies to all rooms (private and multi-share) at Sydney Harbour YHA, Sydney Central YHA and Railway Square YHA. Use the code VIVID to claim the discount when you book online, valid Sunday to Thursday between Sunday, May 27 and Friday, June 15. More info about the offer and other weekend discounts here. Image: Destination NSW.
High-rise hotels and the Gold Coast go hand in hand; however, slumbering at great heights isn't the only way to stay at the tourist-friendly spot. The area is also home to plenty of motels, which come with their own low-key (and lower to the ground) charms — and, thanks to a new startup, they're getting an art-fuelled makeover. Meet Golden Ticket Motel, which wants to turn the Goldie's heritage motel rooms into highly Instagrammable experiences; think: Sugar Republic and the Museum of Ice Cream, but you can kip there. Beginning as a three-month pilot, it enlists artists to deck out motels, turning them into the kind of space that you'll want to snap copious amounts of pictures of. 'Art you can sleep in' is the official spiel, and it fits. The first venue doing the honours is Surf Street Motel in Mermaid Beach, with one room given a revamp by Gold Coast artist Dion Parker. Big, colourful, flower-filled designs feature heavily, as set against black walls. The makeover covers the brightly hued quilt and curtains, statement walls complete with a velvet centrepiece that's designed to look like flowing hair, and florals throughout the bathroom. No, you haven't stayed in a motel quite like this before. If that sounds like your kind of place for an evening, bookings are open for visits from May, starting from $235 per night. As well as soaking in the eye-catching interior design, you'll also be just a five-minute walk from Nobby Beach — because no GC stay is ever really complete without some surf, sun and sand, obviously. The pilot run is supported by a City of Gold Coast creative tourism grant — and if it goes well, the aim is roll out the concept to other Goldie motels. So, you might soon have more places to spend a night in. "The vision for Golden Ticket Motel is to create a unique overnight tourism product for the Gold Coast in collaboration with local artists during a time when there are limited exhibition opportunities for working artists in the area," said Golden Ticket Motel founder Lucy Fisher. "The Gold Coast is blessed with historic motels that should be celebrated, and I wanted to create a product that encourages motel visitation without any outlay from operators and introduce a new audience to this style of accommodation." "Ultimately, the aim is to build Golden Ticket Motel into a thriving creative tourism business based on the Gold Coast that works with artists and accommodation providers to create playful and unique overnight art experiences." Golden Ticket Motel's first pop-up at Surf Street Motel, Mermaid Beach, is available to book for the next three months. For more information, head to the Golden Ticket Motel website.
Sydneysiders are serious about their bar culture, so it's no surprise that Sydney Bar Week is a thing. A glorious, glorious thing. With a program ranging from industry-oriented events like the Bartender of the Year Award to the more casual Global Whisk(e)y Expedition, you'll find something to interest to you. The festival starts off with a bang. Nine veteran bartenders (with over 200 years of combined experience) will be pouring vintage cocktails at a one-off event at The Barber Shop. And why not engage in an Indie Tasting? More than 50 boutique brands will be exhibiting their spirits and you'll also get nine short seminars about different spirits from American gin to craft rum. If none of those sound fun enough to you, we'd suggest the Pool Competition and Handball Tournament at the Oxford Tavern. Show up, and show them who's the school (or bar) yard champ.
Lighten your run with Mizuno, then lighten your spirits at the Color Run after party. Two rules govern the Color Run. First, turn up at the start line at 9am, dressed according to the official dress code: a white shirt. The adornment of the rest of your anatomy is a matter of personal choice. Rainbow tutus, crochet moustaches and leg warmers resembling packets of Life Savers are often part of the scenery. Second, appear 5 kilometres later at the finish line, doused in colour. How you get there is up to you. Even though the event is known as a 'fun run', travelling methods tend to vary from traditional marathon style to human wheelbarrow-ing to commando crawling. The colour part is easy — every kilometre, participants find themselves in a sea of bright cornflour pigment. None of the usual running event conventions apply. Time keeping, winners, divisions, Personal Bests and the like are all overwhelmed by the focus on having a good time. "[It's] less about speed and more about enjoying a colour crazy day with your friends and family," the Sydney Color Run site reads. Whether you're slower than the proverbial tortoise or fast enough to consider taking on Usain Bolt, you'll feel as though you're a vital part of the action. The Color Run was established in January 2012 by American triathlete Travis Snyder. Last year, 600,000 people joined in at 50 events around the world. This year, it's looking more like a million participants and 100 gatherings. The Color Run is a commercial enterprise, but the organisers do sometimes partner up with local charities. This month's Sydney race will support the Celebrate Life Foundation and the Cure for Life Foundation. Excited? Looking for the Registration webpage? We're sorry to have to tell you that the next Sydney run, to be held on August 25, has already sold out. If you're keen enough to travel, however, you can get your rainbow on at 15 other locations around the nation, the nearest being Wollongong, and the furthest away, Perth.
If there's one Sydney event that can evoke both FOMO and JOMO (that's the 'joy of missing out'), it's Vivid. The Sydney spectacle of lights, art and culture is a must-do every year. The problem is that everyone knows it — so battling the crowds is enough to make you crawl into your blanket fort and skip the whole thing. Well, we've found a way for you to avoid the crowds and enjoy the whole shebang in luxury with the best views and a drink in-hand. American Express has snagged the best spot overlooking the gorgeous harbour at Cruise Bar's rooftop and will be hosting an exclusive lounge throughout the festival for both cardholders and guests. Nab a spot next to a heater in this luminous lounge — Vivid views don't get better than this. Whether you're kicking off your night here or dropping in midway through your Vivid tour for some relief from the cold, the Amex lounge is your haven to escape the crowds and take in the sights. Enjoy uninterrupted, panoramic views of the sparkling Sydney Harbour and Sydney Opera House while sipping on Champagne and nibbling on cheese, Lebanese chicken wings and flatbreads and dip. Plus, DJs will also be playing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. These exclusive views are free for Amex cardholders. If you don't have an Amex yet, this is your chance to get a taste of the perks that having one of those cards in your wallet allows. Non-cardholders can register to gain complimentary access to the lounge after 8pm — simply show your confirmation email at the door. The Amex Vivid Lounge will be open every night of Vivid — from Friday, May 24 to Saturday, June 15 — between 5.30–10.30pm. To get your name on the list, head over here.
One of the great joys of being a Nicolas Cage fan is seeing what the actor adds to his resume next. In the past year alone, for example, he has fought alien ninjas from space, hosted a series about the history of swearing, loaned his voice to The Croods franchise again, starred in the yet-to-be-released first English-language film from equally over-the-top Japanese filmmaker Sion Sono and announced that he'll play Joe Exotic in a new drama series based on the Tiger King star's life. His next project: battling demonic animatronic mascots in an effort to save a possessed amusement park. That's the premise behind Willy's Wonderland, which gets a straight-to-home-entertainment release in the US in February — and will undoubtedly do the same Down Under, although a release date for the latter is yet to be announced. Here, in a plot that sounds very close to the video game series Five Nights at Freddy's, Cage plays a quiet loner who becomes stuck in a small town when his car breaks down. He's short on cash, so he takes a night job cleaning the abandoned Willy's Wonderland. Soon, however, fending off the haunted attractions that roam the site's halls is added to his janitorial duties. The film is likely to go one of two ways: absolutely OTT like its lead, or the kind of movie that you only keep watching because of its star. Either way, as the just-dropped trailer shows, expect plenty of Cage demanding your attention in the way that only he can — and adding yet another weird and wild role to his ever-growing resume. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v27rfaoB2Y Willy's Wonderland releases in the US on Friday, February 12, but doesn't currently have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when further details come to hand.
Throw us Sydneysiders a bit of sunshine and we'll take just about any inside activity to the great outdoors. Open-air moviegoing, however, is a clear favourite, so you'll be chuffed to learn that the Sydney Hills Outdoor Cinema is returning for a third year. Running for a month from January 12 to February 12 at the Castle Hill Showground, this al fresco event promises summertime cinema at its best. The 20-strong film program — which will show on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights — will cover both new releases and classics, across all kinds of genres. The season will kick off with the Michael Keaton-starring The Founder followed by a screening of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them the next night, and finish up with WWII film Allied, which stars Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard. But, really, the big screen stuff is just a tiny part of what this pop-up event has in store. Most importantly, Bilpin Cider is on drinks duty, with their fully licensed Garden Bar set to serve an assortment of summer-inspired cocktails, local wine, French bubbly, and the label's own collection of ciders. Meanwhile, a pop-up by local Dural café Wolfe & Co. will be taking care of those movie snacks, stepping beyond your usual popcorn selection to offer the likes of prawn cocktail rolls and beef brisket burgers. There's even a range of cheese and antipasto boards, for anyone wanting to really ace that date night situation. Crashmat beanbags will ensure total tush comfort, but if you really want to luxe up your cinema experience, why not try the four-person Koala Class viewing suite, complete with blankets and private butler service? Or you could get eight of your mates together, and shell out for a VIP bell tent — you'll get your own private viewing courtyard, a private butler, cover and all the creature comforts you need to spend a luxe evening under the stars.
It's a great time to be a film fan. We live in a golden age of blockbusters, spanning multimillion-dollar creations of all shapes and sizes. 2022 saw Top Gun: Maverick break the box office and blow our minds with its mach-one machinations, Minions: The Rise of Gru become an internet phenomenon, and audiences went diving deep into the multiverse via head-spinners like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Everything Everywhere All at Once. Cinemas are the place to be, and if you thought 2022 was big, you're not ready for what awaits in the new year. The next few months contain some huge blockbuster beasts, as any partner, friend or parent of a film fan will have already started hearing about. With that in mind, we've teamed up with HOYTS Cinemas to create a gift guide for the movie buff in your life — matching the upcoming titles your loved ones are excited about with the perfect presents. AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER: HOYTS GIFT CARD If you know somebody who is excited for this film, firstly, can you blame them? It's likely going to be among the biggest titles of both 2022 and 2023. A sequel to James Cameron's 2009 blockbuster, Avatar: The Way of Water once again stars Australia's own Sam Worthington opposite Zoe Saldaña. Picking up ten years after the original, it follows the growing Sully family and the challenges they continue to face. What better gift for somebody waiting to return to Pandora than a HOYTS Gift Card, which they can use to cover the full experience, 3D screenings, snacks and all? In the case of Avatar, 3D is a must-see. Think: the big screen (Xtremescreen-level big), impressive surround sound, comfy recliners and a hefty bucket of popcorn (or luxury in-seat dining), perfect for a summer movie behemoth. HOYTS gift cards cover it all, and can be purchased online or at any HOYTS cinema. I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY: SINGING LESSONS The latest in Hollywood's lineup of major music biopics, I Wanna Dance With Somebody tells the story of 'The Voice' herself, Whitney Houston, from her rise to stardom in the mid-70s to her chart-topping hits of the 90s. Directed by Harriet's Kasi Lemmons, it stars Naomi Ackie as Houston, Stanley Tucci as record producer Clive Davis and Ashton Sanders as her husband Bobby Brown. If Houston's legendary pipes are constantly blaring in your household, it may be time for your resident superfan to work on their own singing skills. The musical maestros at Sydney Voice Studio offer a wide range of courses for every age and experience level, including a free four-week introduction course that lets participants explore the potential of their voice and latent singing skills. Give someone a new hobby and accompanying confidence with a gift voucher to use on a course of their choice. PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH: CATMOSPHERE GIFT VOUCHER Everyone knows Puss in Boots from his appearances in the Shrek franchise, plus his solo big-screen outing in 2011. You may have also heard that he's returning for another ride in Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. In the latest animated trip to the Kingdom of Far Far Away, Puss — voiced by the velvet-smooth Antonio Banderas — is down to the last of his nine lives, and must battle fairy-tale bounty hunters over a star with the power to grant a single wish. If you know a kiddo (or grown-up Shrek fan, no shame in that) who has this on their watchlist, we have the perfect pressie. In Surry Hills, Puss in Boots fans (and any cat person) can find their dream day out at Catmosphere. As Sydney's original Cat Cafe, it offers multiple cat-centric cafe experiences, plus activities like cat yoga. The venue's residents span all breeds and ages, as sourced from rescue groups — and they live there permanently. There are age requirements for some activities, but most cat fans will find themselves accommodated. Gift cards are available online for all experiences and price ranges. BABYLON: ACTING CLASSES Thanks to its stacked cast, Oscar-winning director and glitzy premise, Babylon is a must-see for history buffs and film fans alike. Directed by La La Land's Damian Chazelle and starring Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie, it spins a tale of ambition and excess in 1920s Los Angeles. The era was marked by endless growth and celebration across the United States, especially in a seaside town called Hollywood. Any fan of the cast or director is likely a fan of the film industry as a whole. The appeal of Hollywood and stardom beams brightly — and the movie is about actors and showbusiness, after all — so they might want a chance to make a name for themselves. Send them down that road with a voucher for a course at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, which offers classes for all ages in ten studios across Sydney. Those classes include acting, directing, comedy, theatre and more, and can be taken face-to-face or online. LYLE, LYLE, CROCODILE: SPA DAY PACKAGE Any musical or Broadway appreciator probably has Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile on their radar. The musical comedy is the first film adaptation of the beloved book series about a family who discovers a singing crocodile in the attic of their New York home, and stars Javier Bardem and Constance Wu — plus Shawn Mendes as the titular singing crocodile. Pair that with new original music from the songwriters of The Greatest Showman, and there's plenty to get excited about. One thing that Lyle likes just as much as singing: a good bath. Soaking in some bubbles can help wash off almost any burden, whether you're a crocodile or a human. Accordingly, anyone looking forward to the film will appreciate a stint at The Langham Sydney and its famous day spa services. Vouchers can be bought online, and used for the usual range of massages, spas, pedicures and manicures. MAGIC MIKE'S LAST DANCE: DANCING LESSONS It won't be hard to find somebody who's got their eyes on this six-pack movie. Channing Tatum's mesmerising moves as Mike Lane have entranced audiences for a decade now. In Magic Mike's Last Dance, he takes to the stage for one last show, with Salma Hayek Pinault co-starring as a wealthy, mysterious socialite. It could be the last time we see Tatum's hips swing, so let's make it count. Luckily, there's a gift to fill the void that Mike will leave in our hearts. Sydney Vintage Dance is an honoured local institution where anyone who wants to get moving can give it a try. The vintage in the name points to their curriculum, covering historical dances, chair and heel dancing, fitness dancing, burlesque dancing and dancing performances. So, once Mike hangs up his dancing shoes, your loved one can don their own and bring the art of dance into their lives in a whole new way. Know a film fan? Anyone who has mentioned these films? HOYTS is the place to be this summer, with all of the above movies and more hitting its screens. Find your local cinema and its showtimes on the chain's website, and shop for gift vouchers online as well.
This article is sponsored by our partners, Wotif.com. Adelaide is no stranger to pesky licensing laws impeding the onward march of excellent late-night bar culture, but thankfully in April last year the city’s council saw reason and introduced friendlier regulations. The result? A city that's turning on its charm year-round, not just in February and March when the Adelaide festival and WOMADelaide convert the place into a bohemian heaven. 2014 is Adelaide’s year of the small bar. Here’s a selection of the finest. THE GALLERY ON WAYMOUTH Big, bold and shiny, the Gallery replaces Fad Bar with a more upmarket, suits-friendly offering with two levels of bars to mingle and a middle level for dining. The walls feature a changing gallery of contemporary art, but if that’s not enough to soothe your Friday afternoon exhaustion, get stuck into some BBQ beef ribs and crusty bread ($11) or a heartier main of Saltbush lamb ($27). 30 Waymouth Street, Adelaide UDABERRI Adelaide’s Hindley Street may be one of Australia’s more eccentric red-light main drags, but it has no shortage of laneways like Leigh Street housing civilised bars such as Spanish wine bar supreme, Udaberri. Offering Basque-style bar snacks including an extensive list of Spanish cheeses, it’s all the civility you’ll ever need after a loiter down Hindley Street. Udaberri Pintxos y Vino, 11 Leigh Street, Adelaide PROOF Set on the suitably obscure Anster Street, Proof wine bar is a sophisticated little joint manned by bar staff in waistcoats. Proof will satisfy a hankering for an Old Fashioned or an honest cheese toasty (and by honest we mean beef ragu with Fontina). Proof, 9A Anster Street, Adelaide THE BOTANIC BAR An Adelaide institution, the Botanic on North Terrace has undergone some serious sprucing in recent times. Improvements include spicy chicken wings provided by Golden Boy Thai, who are now serving authentic Thai goodness to thankful Botanic punters as they sip on a luscious Montenegro sour or Rangoon Standard. 309 North Terrace, Adelaide ROCKET ROOFTOP Rocket Bar is Adelaide’s original home of good music. Rocket Rooftop serves serious adult wine from McLaren Vale’s Alpha Box and Dice and also has a solid cocktail list. Rocket Rooftop is the perfect place to enjoy a cool drink on a balmy summer’s night under the best palm tree in the state. 142 Hindley Street, Adelaide THE COLLINS BAR A nod to the roaring 1920s, the Collins Bar shows off some of the state’s best local wines as well as a playful list of cocktails sourced from their extensive, if alarmingly tidy bar. They’re offering the usual suspects in the bar snacks department, such as lemonade-braised pulled pork slider and slaw at a bargain $8. Oh, they also have a fantastically long tequila list. Hilton Adelaide, 233 Victoria Square, Adelaide CLEVER LITTLE TAILOR As its name suggests, the Clever Little Tailor is little and clever. It’s a bonafide small bar — intimate, classy and dedicated to quality booze. Set in an old vintage store on Peel Street, it’s been decorated with old school decor and is serving excellent beers such as Mountain Goat, Feral Hop Hog and Four Pines, along with a selection of charcuterie from Lucia’s at the Central Markets. Clever as they come. 19 Peel Street, Adelaide CANTINA SOCIALE Showing off the best of Adelaide’s boutique wine industry, Cantina Sociale serves authentic, one-off wines not available in any stores, wine lists or bars. Located on Sturt Street, this is a haven for wine lovers to really love their wine. 108 Sturt Street, Adelaide LOFT OYSTER AND WINE BAR The Loft is one of Adelaide’s newest bars located on Gouger Street in the Central Market precinct. With its sparkly new interior, it’s a perfect after-work drinks spot, serving Asian inspired mezze and oysters in every way imaginable. Level 1, 128 Gouger Street, Adelaide STREET-ADL Street-ADL is the first of a two-part venture from chef Jock Zonfrillo. Offering informal dining, cocktails and street food, Street-ADL is all-American with its cheeseburgers and sundaes, and true blue with its Goolwa pipis and lamingtons. Street ADL, 285 Rundle Street, Adelaide
Sydney's winter nights just got a whole lot brighter — and more heartfelt — with the arrival of Hope, a luminous, large-scale artwork that's lighting up Hyde Park Barracks right now. It's been brought to life by Japanese-Australian artist Hiromi Tango, and is part of the wider program of satellite events that's popped up around Vivid Sydney. Hope is an audiovisual projection piece that has transformed the façade of the UNESCO World Heritage site into a glowing beacon of sound and colour, exploring the themes of community and connection. The artwork appears nightly – and it's free to visit, too. [caption id="attachment_1006234" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joshua Morris for Museums of History NSW[/caption] Each night until Saturday, June 21, the Macquarie Street building comes alive with a dynamic projection of digital blooms and swirling light. The projections are accompanied by a rich soundscape of recorded voices — people sharing personal stories of hope, as well as stories about the layered histories embedded in the site itself. These reflections, which echo across the courtyard, are interwoven with audio and visual fragments that honour the Barracks' past. The digital work is accompanied by five large-scale 'hope flowers', as well as a growing garden of hand-crafted blooms. Created through a series of collaborative workshops led by Tango, Hope Garden is a textile-based installation that welcomes visitors at the Barracks gates with flowers made from upcycled materials, each crafted by participants from all walks of life who have depicted their own interpretations of hope. The result is a community-built, constantly evolving landscape that celebrates overlooked voices and shared humanity, and will continue to grow throughout the installation's display time. [caption id="attachment_1006235" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jimmy Murray, Museums of History NSW[/caption] Tango has long worked at the intersection of creativity and care, and has become known for her artwork that draw from the worlds of science and mental health. Drawing from her own experiences with neurodivergence and anxiety, Tango's installations and performance pieces often focus on the therapeutic power of art and the art-making process through her collaborations with scientists, health professionals and research institutions. [caption id="attachment_1006230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mason Dean, Museums of History NSW[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006231" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jimmy Murray, Museums of History NSW[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1006232" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joshua Morris, Museums of History NSW[/caption] 'Hope' by Hiromi Tango is now showing at Hyde Park Barracks, Macquarie Street, Sydney CBD. You can see it every night until Saturday, June 21. For more information, head to the Museums of History NSW website. Top image: Joshua Morris for Museums of History NSW.
Initially, Force of Nature: The Dry 2 was the most-anticipated new Australian movie of 2023. Now, it's taking that label for 2024 instead. After being postponed from its planned August 2023 release amid the current SAG-AFTRA strike, the Aussie film will hit cinemas in February 2024. Fans of Aussie mysteries, page-to-screen crime tales, Eric Bana (Dirty John) getting sleuthing and all things Aaron Falk, take note. The follow-up to 2021's The Dry, Force of Nature: The Dry 2 is now slated to reach the big screen Down Under on Thursday, February 8, 2024. If you're keen to see the film as soon as possible, you'll have the chance a few days earlier, with advance screenings also locked in from Friday, February 2–Sunday, February 4. When Bana stepped into Falk's shoes in The Dry, more movies were always bound to follow. On the screen, the film became a massive Australian box-office hit in 2021 thanks to its twisty mystery, determined detective, stunning scenery and spectacular cast. It was capitalising, of course, on the story's proven success on the page. And, to the delight of movie producers and audiences, the beloved novel by author Jane Harper was just Falk's first appearance. Accordingly, throw that formula together again and you now have Force of Nature: The Dry 2. This second effort sees the core duo of Bana and writer/director Robert Connolly (Blueback) return, with the latter again investigating a case. This time, as both the movie's initial teaser and full trailer explore, Falk is looking into the disappearance of a hiker from a corporate retreat attended by five women. Alongside fellow federal agent Carmen Cooper (Jacqueline McKenzie, Ruby's Choice), Falk heads deep into Victoria's mountain ranges to try to find the missing traveller — who also happens to be a whistle-blowing informant — alive. Also featuring in Force of Nature, which has a powerhouse list of Aussie talent just like its predecessor: Anna Torv (The Last of Us) as missing hiker Alice Russell, plus Deborra-Lee Furness (Jindabyne), Robin McLeavy (Homeland), Sisi Stringer (Mortal Kombat) and Lucy Ansell (Utopia). Richard Roxburgh (Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe), Tony Briggs (Preppers) and Kenneth Radley (The Power of the Dog) pop up, too, while Jeremy Lindsay-Taylor (Heartbreak High) is back in the role of Erik Falk. Reteaming not just after The Dry, but also 2023 release Blueback, Connolly and Bana make quite the pair when it comes to Aussie crime cinema — with Connolly the producer of one of the best local crime movies ever made, aka 1998's unnerving The Boys, and Bana famously the star of the similarly excellent Chopper. Fans of Harper's work also have The Survivors to look forward to, but on the small screen. It's heading to Netflix from the pages of the author's text of the same name, and isn't linked to The Dry or Force of Nature. Here, the Tasmanian-set story follows families still coping with the loss caused by a massive storm in their seaside town 15 years earlier, then faced with a new murder. Check out the full trailer for Force of Nature: The Dry 2 below: Force of Nature: The Dry 2 will release in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on Thursday, February 8, 2024, with advance screenings from Friday, February 2–Sunday, February 4. Read our full review of The Dry. Images: Narelle Portanier.
You should cut down on your porklife and get to the Sydney Opera House this summer, Damon Albarn is coming to Sydney. Celebrating the recent release of his critically-acclaimed first solo venture Everyday Roots, the legendary Blur frontman will bring early Christmas presents to Sydneysiders with an intimate performance on Monday, December 15. Alongside his Blur/Gorillaz escapades, the 46-year-old has casually worked with Everyone Ever — including the late Bobby Womack, buds Brian Eno, Natasha Khan (Bat For Lashes), Paul Simonon (The Clash), master drummer Tony Allen, Snoop Dogg and Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers). For his Sydney show he'll be joined onstage with his shiny new live crew, The Heavy Seas, plus a cheeky string quartet and onstage choir. Epic. "Damon Albarn is one of the great figures in modern music and we're incredibly proud to present his debut solo performance in Australia," said Ben Marshall, head of contemporary music at Sydney Opera House. "His restless inventiveness, inquisitiveness and taste across all his projects have been an inspiration to me and this will be an amazing summer evening in the Opera House Concert Hall." While the setlist will undoubtedly focus on Albarn's solo material, fingers are crossed for a Boys and Girls Easter Egg or two. Albarn's Melbourne show will be announced soon. Damon Albarn will play Sydney Opera House's Concert Hall at 8pm, Monday 15 December. Tickets on sale to the general public Friday, July 11 at 9am via SOH. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ODG3VRkncBc
Dance music is having a real moment with the rise of global sensations like Fred again.. and we're lucky enough to have a thriving dance music scene right here in our own backyard, as well as a host of artists seamlessly blending bassy beats with other genres. Western Sydney's own Ashli is building a cult following through her mix of pop, dance and R&B — and you can catch her at the Sydney Opera House for Vivid 2023. The intimate performance will take place in The Utzon Room of the famed venue. This mid-century space allows artists to have unrivalled proximity to their audience, setting the performances against the backdrop of the spectacular Sydney Harbour. Fresh from taking the stage at SXSW Austin and her inclusion on the SXSW Sydney lineup, Ashli will be performing tracks from her breakout 2022 EP Only One, spanning the club-influenced production of tracks like 'Dance Again' through to raw and intimate songwriting on 'Fields'. The performance is part of the Sydney Opera House's larger Vivid program that also features Cat Power's live reimagining of Bob Dylan's iconic 1966 performance The Royal Albert Hall Concert, Devonté Hynes (aka Blood Orange) performing selected classical works with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and a pop-up bar from The Midnight Special.
Waverley residents — here's something to celebrate: an ambitious Italian restaurant spearheaded by Nigel Ward is set to arrive on Bronte Road within the next six months. The accomplished Sydney chef (ex-Uccello, ex-10 William St) and former owner of Darlinghurst favourite, Sagra, has found a home for his new project in Charing Cross, Australia's second-oldest shopping strip. Named after the Italian tradition of passeggiata, the renovated building will boast three distinct culinary spaces. Passeggiata is a type of unhurried, leisurely stroll you take with your family after a hearty meal. "After a big long lunch, everyone puts on their suits and their Sunday best and they all go out to the town square and walk around real slow, go have some gelato, or have a little drink somewhere," Ward explains. "Nobody's in too much of a hurry, the intention is to ... slow down and enjoy the little qualities of life." It's this kind of relaxed energy that he wants to emulate in his new venture. "I hope when people come here [that] they're not coming with an out time. They just want to come and enjoy themselves and take their time, get a nice bottle of wine [and] eat lots of food," he says. Passeggiata will serve hyper-seasonal Italian dishes, local and international wines made from 100 percent Italian varietals and weekly set menus. Downstairs will serve as the main dining room — a 40-seat venue with comfortable chairs, music that isn't too loud and a menu that champions a progressive spin on classic Italian dishes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by wine bar l restaurant l garden (@passeggiata_au) Upstairs will play host to a smaller 30-seat dining room where Ward and his team will host four-course dinners for groups on Friday and Saturday night. The plan spans a continually rotating set menu priced at around $75 per person. "It might change halfway through the night," he says. "You can just go with a big group of people, order some nice wine and leave it over to us." The final element of Passeggiata is a 24-seat outdoor area open for long Tuscan-style Sunday lunches. The sunny courtyard will boast its own herb and veggie garden, and Ward is in the process of building an in-house bakery in the space. Drawing on the history of the building and taking inspiration from 1970s Rome, the interior of Passeggiata will be designed by Tim Leveson. Towering archways complemented by exposed brickwork, clean brass, muted oak and a moody mustard colour palette is expected to feature throughout the venue. An old pressed metal ceiling and fireplace is also promised. The building is still under construction but Ward is aiming to open all three areas simultaneously, depending on Sydney's venue restrictions and the availability of hospitality workers come summer. To keep up with its progress you can follow along at Passeggiata's Instagram account. "I'm building the restaurant I want to go to," Ward says. "This is it for me. I've bought the building, I want to be here for 30 years. I want this to be the Lucio's of the 21st century." View this post on Instagram A post shared by wine bar l restaurant l garden (@passeggiata_au) Nigel Ward's Passeggiata is set to open at 318 Bronte Road, Waverley between late 2021 and early 2022.
In 2017, one filmmaker had viewers around the world swooning. From the moment that Luca Guadagnino's big-screen adaptation of Andre Aciman's Call Me By Your Name premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and then the Berlinale, it wowed audiences, made a star out of Timothée Chalamet and had everyone talking about Armie Hammer's dancing skills. So the news that the acclaimed director is serving up another Italy-set coming-of-age drama is firmly — and understandably — cause for excitement. This time, Guadagnino is doing so on the small screen, courtesy of new HBO mini-series We Are Who We Are. It's set in 2016, and follows two American teenagers living on a US military base with their parents. Jack Dylan Grazer (IT: Chapter Two) stars as 14-year-old Fraser Wilson, a new arrival from New York with his mothers Sarah (Chloë Sevigny, Queen & Slim) and Maggie (Alice Braga, The New Mutants) — while first-timer Jordan Kristine Seamón plays Caitlin Poythress, a veteran of living on the base with her older brother Danny (Spence Moore II, AP Bio), father Richard (Scott Mescudi, aka Bill & Ted Face the Music's Kid Cudi) and mother Jenny (Faith Alabi, Cold Feet). Also featured in this eight-episode tale of friendship, teen angst, first love and finding one's identity are Francesca Scorsese (daughter of iconic filmmaker Martin Scorsese), Ben Taylor, Corey Knight, Tom Mercier (Synonyms) and Sebastiano Pigazzi — with the cast blending well-known names and faces with plenty of newcomers. We Are Who We Are started airing in the US on September 14, but it'll head to Aussie screens via SBS Viceland and SBS On Demand at a yet-to-be-revealed date. If you're in the need of a virtual trip to Northern Italy, as directed by the filmmaker also behind I Am Love, A Bigger Splash and the 2018 Suspiria remake — and co-written by Guadagnino with Paolo Giordano (The Solitude of Prime Numbers) and Francesca Manieri (Daughter of Mine) — then add this to your future must-watch list. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6VAQ6LdnKs&feature=emb_logo We Are Who We Are will screen on SBS Viceland and SBS On Demand at a yet-to-be-revealed date — we'll update you with further details when they come to hand. Top image: Yannis Drakoulidis/HBO.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — this shindig at the Oxford Art Factory will indulge your retro urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion — expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 9pm on Friday, October 18. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the party. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Entry costs $20, with the fun running through until 3am. Image: Destination NSW.
Kiama might be familiar as a convenient stopover on road trips, but with epic waves, spectacular coastal views and a growing culinary scene, the seaside town deserves to be considered a destination in its own right. From striking rock formations and hikes in the rainforest to art galleries and elevated dining with water views, Kiama proves that there's a lot more to experience in the region than just its famous blowhole. We've compiled a guide of outstanding accommodations, eateries and activities to entertain when you discover the beauty of Kiama for yourself — all you have to do is pick a playlist, pack some snacks and hit the open road. Where to Stay With so much to do around Kiama, you'll want somewhere warm and welcoming to come home to after long adventures. Elevate your stay in any of these properties with private chef experiences, fitness classes, spa sessions and hands-on clay, candle or jewellery-making workshops. For smaller groups, the Bella Sea Gerroa has views of the sunrise and Seven Mile Beach, plus three bedrooms, a patio dining area, a yard and a fire pit — ideal for a glass of vino with your travelling companions under the stars (and a blanket). If you're after something a bit more lavish, Sundara Beach House in Gerringong features seven bedrooms, a heated saltwater pool and a spa. Also in Gerringong, Bunker House is an automated smart house with seven bedrooms, an outdoor deck and barbecue, a heated pool, a gym and steam room, three kitchens, and indoor and outdoor fireplaces. Greyleigh is the ultimate rural stay in Jerrara, with room for up to 12 guests in the Homestead and six guests in the Guest House. Situated on a working farm only five minutes from Kiama, you're invited to collect freshly laid eggs from the chicken pen for your morning breakfast or pick fresh produce for your meals. Depending on the season, you can expect herbs, citrus fruits, nuts, lettuce, spinach, zucchini, tomatoes and chillies ready to be harvested for your meals. [caption id="attachment_792155" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dovecote, Kiama[/caption] Book the stunning Dovecote for a memorable escape. Perched on 150 acres of farmland in Gerringong, the award-winning Dovecote offers two luxury accommodation options, both of which include indoor fireplaces, a pool and sweeping views across the coast. Guests also have the option to book spa treatments, arrange a wine tasting or have chef-prepared meals delivered. Got a furry friend with you? Kiama is an oasis for four-legged companions, boasting dog-friendly beaches, parks, and grassy areas. If you'd prefer to explore pooch-free, you can leave them in the safe and capable hands at Gerringong Pet Accommodation. Set on two acres of land, this daycare and boarding service features four boarding areas, a fenced playground, and grooming services, ensuring your pet is well taken care of while you enjoy your time in Kiama. [caption id="attachment_961966" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kiama Coast Walk, Destination Kiama[/caption] What to Do Whether you're keen on an outdoor adventure, a cultural fix or a way to connect with the local community, Kiama boasts activities for every type of traveller. A quintessential Kiama experience is the Kiama Coast Walk — a trail of 20 kilometres from Minnamurra River to Werri Beach that includes the region's greatest hits. Divided into three sections, the walk brings you past the Kiama Blowhole, Little Blowhole, Cathedral Rocks, Bombo Headland and Boneyard. Don't forget to take the opportunity to cool off at the Blowhole Point Ocean Pool, Loves Bay or Campbells Hole along the way. [caption id="attachment_965483" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] For a change of scenery, drive 15 minutes to the subtropical Minnamurra Rainforest in Budderoo National Park. Get the lay of the land with the 1.6-kilometre Loop Walk, or opt for the longer Falls Walk for views of the Minnamurra Falls. Once you've experienced Kiama's breathtaking landscapes, it's time to delve into the region's creative scene. Culture vultures can discover local artists at Fern Street Gallery, Seven Marks Gallery and Two Gulls Art Studio/Gallery. The architecturally bold Bundanon Art Museum, a 45-minute drive away, features rotating exhibits, live performances and Arthur Boyd's studio. For a deeper dive, pop into the studio of South Coast artist Kerry Suttonberg, who paints the landscapes of Kiama, Gerringong and Berry, or Robyn Sharp, whose studio is set among the greenery of Foxground. [caption id="attachment_839627" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bundanon, Zan Wimberley[/caption] Don't just be a spectator of the arts. Get your hands dirty with a pottery class at Soul Clay Studios, try your hand at creating a masterpiece (no experience required) at Kiama Art Workshops or join a candle-making workshop at Willowvale Road. Of course, the town's creative scene is only as strong as the community, and what better way to connect with the locals than by checking out some neighbourhood events? The Kiama Farmers' Market takes place at Coronation Park every Wednesday afternoon, while Buena Vista Farm offers workshops ranging from cheesemaking to fermentation. If you're visiting in July, the Kiama Winter Street Festival will take over Terralong Street from Saturday, July 13, to Sunday, July 14. The winter festival features live music, giant puppets, illuminations, and art activations, as well as hands-on, family-friendly activities and exceptional dining experiences. [caption id="attachment_961973" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Fitz[/caption] Where to Eat and Drink All that exploring is sure to leave you hungry, so head to some of these recommended eateries when you need to refuel. Start your day with a coffee and bagel from Central Perk, which has you covered with brews until 5.30pm on weekdays and 5pm on weekends. If you've opted to sleep in, stop for a salad, wrap or moussaka at Otis. [caption id="attachment_965484" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fish Vibes[/caption] For all-day dining, head to Zia's Caffe for Italian classics, or grab fish and chips from Fish Vibes to enjoy by the waterside. You can also curb any midday sugar cravings with doughnuts or loaded pancakes at Moist 'N' Glazed. If you have the time for a long lunch or romantic dinner and drinks, look no further than The Hill Bar and Kitchen. The Gerringong restaurant serves elevated pub favourites — think tacos, burgers, pizzas and schnitzel — from lunch to dinner in an airy space with ocean views. Plan your visit to Kiama and discover fantastic winter offers on the Destination Kiama website.
Star Wars fans, prepare to punch it on down to Sydney's Powerhouse Museum in November — and prepare to come face to face with 200 original objects from the popular sci-fi franchise at Star Wars Identities: The Exhibition. You might have to wait more than 12 months until Star Wars: Episode IX reaches cinemas late next year, but you can spend your days from November 16, 2018 until June 10, 2019 perusing the items that helped make space opera movie magic happen. Coming to Australia for the first time, that includes costumes, props, models and artworks from the Lucasfilm archives, complete with a galaxy's worth of favourites — think BB-8, R2-D2 and the Millennium Falcon just for starters. Get a glimpse of Yoda, you will, circa Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back. You'll also feel the power-hungry menace radiate from Darth Vader's suit from Star Wars: Episode VII — Return of the Jedi. Star Wars Identities is also an interactive exhibition, with creating your own unique character also part of the experience. If you've ever felt as though you should be hanging out in a cantina somewhere on a remote planet, here's your chance to answer a heap of questions, work through a series of stations and find your inner Star Wars hero. You won't need to use the force — rather, you'll receive a smart technology bracelet and a headset to use while you're in the exhibition (but if you want to say that you're using the force or even want to give midi-chlorians some credit, no one will stop you). The Powerhouse Museum is no stranger to Star Wars shenanigans, having hosted a weekend's worth of May the Fourth fun earlier this year. For those already planning their costumes for this 90-minute experience, you're welcome to attend as Han Solo, Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker or whichever other character you'd like — but helmets and masks will need to be left in the cloak room, and you'll also need to leave your lightsabers at home.
Let's go party, indeed: Barbie is here, filling Australian cinemas with pink-hued cheer, and slaying both the patriarchy and the Australian box office. Greta Gerwig's Margot Robbie-starring take on the famous doll packed picture palaces not just with every shade of not-quite-red it could, but with people, breaking a Malibu DreamHouse worth records in the process. If you noticed plenty of fellow filmgoers watching this trip to Barbie Land, then Los Angeles, then back with you last weekend, that was the experience mirrored around the country. In fact, Barbie notched up the biggest opening at the Australian box office for 2023 so far, raking in $21.5 million including preview screenings. The stats keep coming, but the best is truly historic: Barbie enjoyed the biggest opening weekend for a film directed by a female filmmaker. It earned that same huge opening weekend title for films with any of Robbie, Gerwig and Ryan Gosling (The Gray Man) involved. Now that's some Kenergy. Also, Barbie helped smash even more records as part of the double feature of 2023: Barbenheimer. Thanks to both Barbie and Christopher Nolan's vastly dissimilar atomic-bomb thriller Oppenheimer, the Aussie box office saw its biggest-ever Saturday and Sunday takings. On Saturday, July 22, $11.1 million spent bested the $10.3 million recorded in April 2019 when Avengers: Endgame released. On Sunday, July 23, the $10.5 million gross topped the $9.96 million taken in December 2105 — on the Boxing Day public holiday on December 27, in fact — as fuelled by Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens, plus Boxing Day releases. Specific cinemas also broke past records. At Sydney's Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, the independent theatre scored its highest-grossing weekend in its 88-year history. Oppenheimer in 70mm notched up the cinema's highest-grossing opening ever, while Barbie now sits second in that same category. At Melbourne's Cinema Nova, the also-independent cinema looks set to earn its biggest box-office week of all time. If it does, it'll break the record set in January 2020, when Gerwig's Little Women was playing alongside films like Jojo Rabbit and Parasite. Barbie also took the opening-week record from Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel, and might become the first film by a female filmmaker to hit the venue's top ten of all time list. As for Oppenheimer, it's in the top ten biggest opening weekends. It shouldn't be lost on anyone that Barbie and Oppenheimer's successes mean that two movies that aren't part of long-running franchises have audiences flocking in. Neither film comes in as the fifth or 11th or 17th or 31st entries in a long-running saga, and don't we all know and love it. Here's the big takeaway: more of that please, especially given that oh-so-much of what reaches the silver screen is a sequel, prequel or chapter in a sprawling universe these days. Check out the trailers for Barbie and Oppenheimer below: Barbie is showing in Australian cinemas now. Read our review. Oppenheimer is also showing in Australian cinemas now. Read our review, too.
When Palace Verona opened its doors 27 years ago, Nicole Kidman did the honours. In 2024, it'll turn off its projectors and shut up shop. The arthouse cinema chain has announced that its Oxford Street picture palace will close in January, when the company's lease on the site finishes. The building that the theatre is in is then set to be redeveloped. One big-screen spot may be bidding farewell, but another will then say hello: Palace Moore Park. Sydney movie lovers won't have to wait long to swap Paddington for Entertainment Quarter, with Palace's latest addition slated to open in February. So, think of this as a relocation — or a reboot, if you prefer. Entertainment Quarter already has Hoyts onsite, but Palace's venue will be solely devoted to arthouse and international cinema, rather than blockbusters. "As we bid farewell to Palace Verona, we want to express our sincere appreciation to all of our patrons who have shared in the magic of cinema within its iconic walls. The passion and enthusiasm you have shown over the years have truly made Palace Verona a cherished community landmark," said Palace Cinemas CEO Benjamin Zeccola. "We are committed to preserving the arthouse ethos that Palace Verona is renowned for and having that live on at Palace Moore Park," Zeccola continued. "Moviegoers can expect an enhanced experience with an expanded range of films, more immersive events and, of course, our unwavering commitment to excellent hospitality". The Verona building will fall under new management once Palace departs. Over at EQ, the chain names parking and public transport options among the new drawcards — and dining options as well. Find Palace Verona at 17 Oxford Street, Paddington until January 2024, and Palace Moore Park at Entertainment Quarter from February 2024 — with exact closing and opening dates yet to be revealed.
Northern Beaches hotel Manly Pacific is set to unveil the result of a $30-million transformation this November. The extensive revamp is just a few weeks away from completion and will feature a new set of wellness-focused suites for tourists looking for a luxurious beach stay or Sydneysiders looking to get out of the city for a staycation. Two major elements of the renovations include the introduction of nine new rooms overlooking Manly Beach that will be fitted out with premium amenities and have access to wellness services, plus the new rooftop hotel pool for guests to enjoy between ocean swims and Northern Beaches adventures. "Whether you're here after work, or on a weekend getaway, from the moment you step into our hotel, you'll feel calm, rejuvenated and connected to the ocean," says Manly Pacific General Manager Dylan Cole. "Manly has always had a magical feel to it that can wash away the bustle of the city. At Manly Pacific, we've added a touch of beachside vibrance that amplifies the feeling of being above and away from it all." The Manly Pacific team has enlisted the help of Australian design firm Coco Republic to create a space that reflects the picturesque setting of Manly and its beaches. The refurbished hotel features natural materials and blue-grey tones throughout, evoking the coastal energy of its surrounds. The new features will join Manly Pacific's existing offerings, which include two in-house restaurants, Bistro Manly and Tokyo Joe. The hotel also offers specific work-from-hotel packages that help facilitate working staycations, including a study table, unlimited coffee, complimentary room service lunches and a knock-off cocktail at 5pm. Manly Pacific is located at 55 N Steyne, Manly. The hotel's $30 million renovation will be unveiled in November.
Sydney Theatre Company artistic directors Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton have taken inspiration from movies, novels, the preoccupations of the world and the ingenuity of local artists to create a 2012 season where you can see My Fair Lady with an Aussie soap star in place of Audrey, commune with the numerous townsfolk of Dylan Thomas's literary Llareggub and lose yourself in a magic realist world freshly sown by Tim Winton. If there's a centrepiece, it may be Never Did Me Any Harm, a new Australian work by Kate Champion and her physical theatre company, Force Majeure. Bouncing off Christos Tsiolkas's The Slap and the abundance of opinions everyone has on parenting, it promises to visit Australian suburbia, and it might not be the most polite houseguest. Unmissable and alliterative directors Simon Stone (The Wild Duck, Baal) and Sam Strong (Speaking in Tongues) each helm a play: Stone Face to Face, a co-adaptation with Upton from the classic Ingmar Bergman film about the nightmares that come to intrude upon a woman's life; and Strong Les Liaisons Dangereuses, which casts Hugo Weaving and Pamela Rabe as its manipulative, feuding Marquise and Vicomte (yes, this story was once incarnated as Cruel Intentions). Following in the footsteps of the phenomenal August: Osage County and Terminus, the international slot in 2012 will be filled by Edinburgh's Traverse Theatre with their Midsummer (a play with songs), apparently a romantic comedy you can enjoy without irony or shame. Outside the main stage program, there's also an all-male Pirates of Penzance and a new collaboration from Ontroerend Goed (Once and for all we’re gonna tell you who we are so shut up and listen) and STC's Residents to look forward to. Check out the full program at the STC website.
If there's anyone in Sydney who knows where to find the best street art, the smartest galleries and the most fun art gatherings, it's Scott Marsh. Even if you don't know his name, chances are, you know his work. His most famous piece is undoubtedly Kanye Loves Kanye, a seven-metre-tall mural of two Kanyes kissing one another, which appeared in Teggs Lane, Chippendale, in April 2016. Within a month, someone paid Marsh $100,000 to buff (graffiti-speak for paint over) it. Also among his international headline-grabbing works are Casino Mike, a satirical portrait of former NSW premier Mike Baird painted as a protest against the lockout laws, and Tony Loves Tony, an image of Tony Abbott marrying himself. In partnership with Pullman Hotels and Resorts, we're helping you explore more on your next holiday and make sure you get those experiences that the area's most switched-on residents wouldn't want their visitors to miss. In Sydney, we've called in Scott, whose favourite spots range from Wendy Whiteley's dreamy harbourside garden to the best shops for premium spray paint. A stay in one of Pullman's two locations in central Sydney — Hyde Park and Quay Grand Sydney Harbour (there's also two more at Sydney Airport and Sydney Olympic Park) — will not only put you in the thick of all this action, it will let you contemplate all you've seen in five-star luxury at the end of the day. Read on for Scott's perspective on Sydney's artistic hot spots, and check out the rest of our Explore More content series to hone your itinerary for some of Australia's best holiday destinations. SUNDAY WALLS AT THE LORD GLADSTONE Since June 2015, artists and musicians have been gathering once a month at the Lord Gladstone in Chippendale for Sunday Walls. From 2 until 10pm, an emerging or established graffiti artist works on a temporary mural with a stack of spray cans, while live hip hop DJs provide a soundtrack. Punters hang around to watch, eat $10 fried chicken and share $15 jugs of Frank Strongs. The Lord Gladstone attracts a pretty laidback, eclectic crowd, and watching a new art work appear before your eyes can't not be fun. GOODSPACE GALLERY OPENINGS Goodspace Gallery gives Chippendale a weekly art fix with exhibition openings on Wednesday evenings from 6pm–9pm. Artists score a good deal because the space doesn't charge rent or take commissions. Plus, both local and international talent features. In early November, Sydney-based photographer James Simpson exhibited Endless Summer, a collection of photos influenced by French and Italian cinema of the '60s and '70s. The week before, photographer Joshua Valageorgiou, who splits his time between Sydney and Athens, took over the space with Cluster, a black-and-white analogue series. [caption id="attachment_644404" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] by Luke Shirlaw[/caption] IRONLAK ART AND DESIGN About a year ago, this graffiti-dedicated retail space opened on the ground floor of Central Park, Broadway. It's the Sydney flagship of Ironlak, a premium spray-paint brand founded in the early 2000s by Australian graffiti artist Luke Shirlaw, in collaboration with brothers Levi and Heath Ramsay, and now sold internationally. Not only is Ironlak Art and Design a great place to check out quality products and meet artists, the walls are covered in street art. Plus, it's open until 8pm 363 days a year, so even if you're in a full-time job, you can drop by and get what you need to start your next project. REDFERN AND NEWTOWN GRAFFITI AND STREET ART There's a few great street art spots around Redfern and Newtown that I check out whenever I can. More often than not, I find something new to see. In Redfern, expect to catch me around The Block or Phillip Lane, where there's a lot of Indigenous street art, including works by Reko Rennie and Hego, telling stories of history, identity and resistance. When I'm in Newtown, I take a wander down Wilford and Gladstone Streets. Young Henrys is nearby, which means it's pretty tempting to stop for a beer sample or two. FINTAN MAGEE'S HOUSING BUBBLE MURAL This is my favourite mural in Sydney. It's called The Housing Bubble and it's on the side of the Urban hotel, on the corner of Enmore and Station Streets. Fintan Magee, an artist who was born in Lismore and grew up in Brisbane, painted it over the course of four days during Marrickville Council's Perfect Match street art festival in July 2015. Every year, the event brings a bunch of new works to Sydney, by providing artists with spaces and encouraging crowds to watch as they sketch, paint and spray. [caption id="attachment_644637" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] by Newtown Graffiti[/caption] SYDNEY STEEL ROAD, MARRICKVILLE Found just a short walk from Sydenham Station, Sydney Steel Road puts a whole lot of excellent art, colour and vibrancy into an otherwise industrial area. There's everything from realistic portraits to political statements to giant, surrealist murals. When you're done here, wander across Camdenville Park to May Lane, which gives you a stack more work to see. A shopkeeper started a graffiti wall there more than 15 years ago because he wanted to create a space where artists could work legally. May Lane is a fixture on the Perfect Match program, so major new works are added each year. 567 KING Newtown's graffiti writers have been stocking up here since August 2005, and these days, artists of all kinds drop by. Whether you want spray paint, pencils, paints or paper, you can get it. Plus, if listening to a bit of hip hop on vinyl or CD while you're working is your thing, you can make your picks in the shop and ask the crew to deliver them to your door. There's also a handy commissioning service: get in touch with a request for an artwork and 567King will hook you up with the right artist for the job. BRETT WHITELEY STUDIO When Brett Whiteley died in Thirroul in 1992, he left behind this studio in Surry Hills, where he'd worked and lived since 1985. Walking in here is a bit like stepping back in time, into Whiteley's private and artistic life. There are paintings he started but never finished, piles of books that gave him inspiration and quotes scrawled across the wall. In the adjoining gallery, temporary exhibitions showcase works owned by the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Whiteley Estate and private collectors, so there's always a new reason to visit. WENDY'S SECRET GARDEN Across the harbour, in Lavender Bay, is the creative work of the other half of the legendary Whiteley partnership: Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden. From 1970, for the best part of 20 years, the Whiteleys lived in a house nearby. When Brett passed away, Wendy coped with her grief by setting to work on the land, which back then, was disused railway property, covered in rubbish and weeds. Now, it's a haven of blood leaf, ginger, angel's trumpets, palms, fig trees and sandstone walls overhung with rambling vines, where I come to escape, sketch and drink coffee. MCA ARTBAR MCA ARTBAR combines art with music and live performance to create something entirely new. The happening takes over various parts of the gallery on the last Friday of every month, and even if you've checked out the program, you never can tell quite what you're in for. In July 2017, Latai Taumoepeau curated Archipela_GO ....this is not a drill, a mix of live performances and interactive works exploring climate change. Before that, in May, Vivid 2017 artist Julia Gorman brought together samba dancers, DJs, artists and a pop-up jewellery stall for a night of colour and light. Explore more with Pullman. Book your next hotel stay with Pullman and enjoy a great breakfast for just $1.
