First he brought the entirety of his Berkshire restaurant The Fat Duck to Melbourne for a residency, in which seats went for $525 each (plus wine). Then it was Dinner by Heston, which, while not as exorbitant, still costs a pretty penny (a starter of savoury porridge goes for $36). But now, in UK celeb chef Heston Blumenthal's latest Melbourne project, he'll be opening a series of one-night-only pop-up restaurants for a considerably affordable price — that is, $0. Yes, free. As in, no money will be changing hands, and no credit card details are required. The Hidden Heston pop-ups are part of MasterChef machine's Heston Week — and while they will no doubt involve nervous contestants fumbling over intricate and ridiculous dishes, they'll nonetheless be extremely exclusive events. So be prepared to earn yourself a place at the table. There will be four pop-ups in total, each running for one service only in a "top-secret" location in Melbourne that will only be announced before the doors open. Punters will have to keep an eye on MasterChef's Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for clues, and enter online to receive an invitation. According to MasterChef, each restaurant will offer a "completely different dining experience", and the lucky winners will get "an experience they will remember forever". So, fingers at the ready — this is your chance to get a slice of the meat fruit pie without forking out a whole month's rent. The Hidden Heston pop-ups will be coming to Melbourne in March. For more info, keep checking the MasterChef Facebook page.
Remember Miami Horror? Back in 2010, the Melbourne electronic-pop band set our hearts alight with their excellent debut LP Illumination. Their hit single from the same album, 'Sometimes', has been on rotation on summer playlists ever since. It's been four years since then and Miami Horror are finally returning in grand comeback style. During their hiatus, they've been busy living it up in sunny Los Angeles and putting the finishing touches on their forthcoming sophomore album due later this year. In the meantime, they; sneakily released the catchy 'Wild Motion (Set It Free)' — the perfect anthem for lazy days lounging by the pool. To promote the new single, Miami Horror are heading back to the homeland with a massive eight-day headlining tour — only their second since 2011. To amp it up a notch, they're promising to build a whole new projection-based light show with hand-drawn images and and splashes of animated colour. Who knows where the band will disappear to next, so catch them live before they're off again. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IolDbdoQbaM
We're happy to announce that, in the name of gender equality, chef Teague Ezard is finally opening the female equivalent to his popular Melbourne Asian fusion eatery Gingerboy in Sydney: Gingergirl. Okay, so it's not really in the name of gender equality, it's more in the name of excellent Thai food — but for whatever reason, the acclaimed restaurant is popping up at The Star until the end of March 2017. Ezard is behind the food at the complex's BLACK Bar and Grill, and Gingergirl will be making her appearance right around the corner. You can expect an earthier twist on Gingerboy's menu, at far earthier prices. Think cold noodle salad with all the trimmings — squid, drunken chicken, sesame, paw paw and bandit dressing — for $16, a yellow curry of blue eye and wagyu brisket with peanut tamarind caramel and hot and sour coconut salad for $22 a piece. They're also doing Vietnamese coffees and bubble tea, and a thom kha creme brûlée for dessert. The dining atmosphere will also err on the side of casual, so it's a good way to taste some damn fine food without the fine dining vibes (or price tag).
The City of Sydney has granted approval to the Development Application for Central Place Sydney, a $3 billion pair of commercial towers set to be built above Central Station. Introducing 130,000 square metres of floor space to Sydney's CBD, Central Place will play a key role in the new Tech Central precinct, which is set to transform the bustling train station into a world-class hub for tech-based businesses. This billion-dollar precinct was first announced in 2020, with former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian labelling it the "Silicon Valley of Australia" at the time. Central Place will be comprised of 35- and 37-storey towers joined by The Connector, an eight-floor street-level building. These high-rises are being billed as "the new home for tomorrow's game changers", facilitating workplaces for an estimated 15,000 employees and creating over 700 jobs during construction. "Our development has been designed to create a place where work and lifestyle can blend seamlessly, create an exciting new destination for Sydney and leverage what is already on offer as a thriving tech and innovation neighbourhood emerges," Project Director of Central Place Sydney Kimberly Jackson says. There's also a push for sustainability in the construction of Central Place Sydney. The project has a net-zero emissions target and 80-percent waste diversion from landfill target. "Central Place Sydney will set the benchmark in sustainability for commercial developments of this scale in Australia. The building will feature workplace environments that integrate nature, maximise daylight, has provisions for natural ventilation, and be supported by renewable energy to achieve our net zero emissions in operations target," Jackson continues. "We are working with start-ups and neighbouring universities to explore innovations in technology and circular economy, all intended to support the development ambitions for carbon reduction and provide the best possible workplace experience for tenants and customers." Tech Central will sit alongside a range of sweeping transformations to Central Station. In August, it was announced that 60,000 square meters of public space would be introduced to the site, with sections of the station would be transformed into parks, restaurants, shops and affordable housing. Alongside this, the Eddy Avenue Plaza is also set to become a dining and entertainment precinct reminiscent of Spice Alley. Frasers Property and Dexus, the organisations behind Central Place Sydney, are aiming to begin production on the high-rises in 2023, with a projected completion date set for 2027. Central Place Sydney has received DA approval from the City of Sydney. You can find all the details on the project on the Frasers Property website.
Rumour has it Google employees get unlimited “sick” days, but chances are only the most raging of hangovers would convince them to stay at home. The company in charge of ruling the world gave an exclusive tour of their NYC offices, and they make the idea of working from home in your pyjamas flicking tabs between Microsoft Word and Facebook while spilling toast crumbs over your MacBook look dreadfully boring. CEOs everywhere, take note: The way to get employees eager to show up to work is not with fruit box deliveries or permission to cellotape cheesy family photographs to office cubicles. A more effective way to increase workplace morale is with Pac-Man arcades and game rooms where employees can fight brain block with a round of pool. For those who find silence more conductive to creativity the compound also features a Google Library eschewing books (so last decade) in favour of secret rooms. And for days when heating last night’s leftovers in one of the multiple “micro” kitchens (which are incidentally bigger than most people’s apartments) doesn't sound appetising there are cafés dishing up free hot meals. One of them even has a rooftop theme and an interior resembling a wooden sauna. Interesting to think what the disgruntled employees of Facebook would have to say about that wee perk. Evidently the building is also occasionally used for working. This can take place in sleek cubicle spaces housing both actual humans and Star Wars B1 Battle Droid replicas, from the comfort of a lounge chair in a space modeled on an NYC apartment, or in the Broadway-themed New Amsterdam conference room. Scroll through the images, turn green with envy and try to think of one cooler office in which to have Friday afternoon drinks. Google's "computer museum". The game room. One of the many "micro" kitchens, which appears to be connected to the Pac-Man arcade. Free M&Ms in the micro kitchen. The Google Library. A B1 Battle Droid from Star Wars. Inside the Five Borough Café. These walls are a continuous impression of what's behind them, giving the impression of viewing the NYC skyline from a balcony. A room poking fun at a cramped NYC apartment. via Refinery29.
Spending your days jetting around the world is truly the travel dream. Doing so without paying for flights? Now that's a next-level fantasy. Actually, that's the exact gift that Jetstar is giving one lucky person and their favourite travelling companion to celebrate 19 years of operation. The discount carrier is having a birthday, but it's the one handing out a present. If you're the competition's winner, you'll fill a year zooming about, although there is a limit to how much you can get soaring over the 12-month period. The chosen recipient will receive 12 domestic return flights plus six international return flights, both for two people. So, if you win, your other half / bestie / sibling is going to want to start making holiday plans, too. That equates to three holidays every two months, whether you're keen to hit up your favourite places or try somewhere new. The winner will be able to choose from 86 destinations — and, if you want to be guided by where you would've loved to visit when you were 19, that's perfectly acceptable. Before you can go in the running for the contest, which is only open to over-18s, you will need to start pondering. Jetstar has dubbed the contest 'FEEL 19 AGAIN', and entering requires you to tell the airline in 19 words or less what your absolute dream job be. The specific question: "if you could try any job for a day, what would it be and why?". And yes, plenty of people are bound to answer "travelling the world". After you direct your response to the airline's Instagram, you'll then need to wait to find out if you're chosen as a semi-finalist, which will be revealed on Thursday, June 1. Nineteen folks will get the nod — spot the theme? — and will be picked based on the most creative, funny or quirky answers. They'll then have three days (until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 4) to create and send a short video highlighting why they'd be an ace fit (the best, in fact) for the gig. Following that, Jetstar will shortlist its top entries again, whittling down the contenders. Finally, the company's social-media followers will vote on Monday, June 5. Obviously, you'll want to pick something memorable to stand out. The airline suggests ghost hunting in Adelaide and being a professional mascot in Tokyo, but you can do better than that. Jetstar's 19th-birthday ticket giveaway runs from 6am on Thursday, May 25–11.59pm on Wednesday, May 31. Head to the airline's website and Instagram for further details. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Five of Sydney's top venues have added a juicy deal to their menus this month with bottomless brunch, lunch and dinners all on the cards until the end of April. Anyone wanting to celebrate with friends over free-flowing drinks can do so thanks to the new Endless Celebrations promotion that House Made Hospitality is running. You can currently add bottomless beer and wine to any meal, not just your standard bottomless brunch, at venues Lana, Grana, Martinez, Promenade and Easy Tiger. For $54 per person, you can pair Grana's squid ink orecchiette or Martinez's views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with continuous refills of beers, prosecco, white and red wines, rosé and House Made's own Textural White. If you want to really celebrate — and are willing to splash some cash — you can take things up a notch by adding bottomless Lallier champagne to the deal for an extra $99, bringing your total to $153 per person. Just make a booking at one of the five venues before Tuesday, April 30. If you're in a group of two to eight, you'll be treated to two hours of free-flowing bevs, while if your group is nine or more, then your dining experience can roll for an extra 30 minutes. For more information and to book, head to the respective website of the venue you're looking to dine at — from seafood-heavy spreads right on Bondi Beach courtesy of Promenade, to prawn rolls and braised beef rendang at Easy Tiger. Images: Steven Woodburn
When it comes to idyllic harbourside suburbs, it's hard to look past Sydney's beautiful Rose Bay. Only seven kilometres from the city, the neighbourhood sports an array of top-notch cafes, stylish watering holes and plenty of independent bakeries, grocers, homeware shops and bottle shops to enjoy. Here, there are loads of opportunities to lend the community and small businesses in the area a helping hand. To help you make the most of your time in the area, we've teamed up with American Express to design your go-to guide of venues to browse in and around Rose Bay. Grab a bite with mates, restock your liquor cabinet or prepare an excellent dinner party by shopping small with just a tap of your Amex Card.
When the original UK version of The Office turned workplace awkwardness, cringeworthy bosses and frustrating coworkers into a huge comedic success two decades ago, it found humour in parts of the 9-to-5 grind that we all recognise. When the hit show inspired the hugely popular American series, the mere fact that it sparked a spinoff also spoke to another employment truth: that office chaos, overbearing managers and unpleasant colleagues aren't a mere product of one place, company or country. It's no wonder that more iterations have kept following, with everywhere from Canada, France and Germany to Israel, India and Poland serving up their takes. Next, marking the franchise's 13th adaptation, comes Australia's own The Office — and it now has a trailer. It's time to clock on: come Friday, October 18, The Office is reopening, this time Down Under. Back in 2023, Prime Video announced that it was making an Aussie version of the sitcom, featuring actor and comedian Felicity Ward (Time Bandits) as Flinley Craddick Managing Director Hannah Howard. This is also the first take worldwide with a female boss. Move over David Brent, and also Michael Scott — it's now Howard's turn to become the manager that no one wants but everyone has worked for. She oversees a packaging company. When she receives news that head office is shutting down her branch, with everyone working from home instead, she's determined to keep her team together. Obviously, that won't go smoothly, or there'd be no sitcom antics to be had in The Office's Aussie stint. Joining Ward is a hefty cast spanning Edith Poor (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power), Steen Raskopoulos (The Duchess), Shari Sebbens (Preppers), Josh Thomson (Young Rock), Jonny Brugh (What We Do in the Shadows), Pallavi Sharda (The Twelve), Susan Ling Young (Barons), Raj Labade (Back of the Net), Lucy Schmit (The Pledge), Zoe Terakes (Talk to Me) and Claude Jabbour (Last King of the Cross). Also featuring: Susie Youssef (Deadloch), Justin Rosniak (Colin From Accounts), Carlo Ritchie (A Beginner's Guide to Grief), Rick Donald (Population: 11), and Chris Bunton (Wolf Like Me). Viewers will be able to binge Ward and company's antics, with the entire eight-episode first season of the The Office dropping at once — so get your staplers in jelly ready. Check out the trailer for the Australian version of The Office below: The Australian version of The Office streams via Prime Video from Friday, October 18, 2024. Images: John Platt and Prime Video, © BBCS and Bunya Entertainment.
If there's one place that trumps Australia in the brunch stakes, it's good ol' NYC. For the uninitiated, the city's take on the famed hybrid meal is, quite simply, on another level. It's decadent, lengthy and perhaps (note: definitely) a little boozy. As a self-confessed 'New York tragic', it's little surprise that Charles Cameron lists the city as a source of inspiration for his venture Matinee Coffee. This Marrickville eatery takes cues from NYC in a number of ways: it's open all-day, it serves booze — including neighbouring brew Grifter on tap — and it has an unabashedly bold fit-out. Noting that he feels both Scandi and industrial styles have been serviced in the cafe scene — and he would know as a former owner of industrial haven Brewtown — Cameron had very different intentions for Matinee. To create the space, he teamed up with interior masters Luchetti Krelle. A jewel-toned colour palette tracks through orange table-tops, a crimson-tiled communal table, green velvet chairs and a mural on the back wall. There are references to old-school milk bars in the blue marmoleum flooring and a neon-lit menu above the coffee machine. The venue takes full advantage of its corner location on Addison Road. An L-shaped counter provides Cameron a panoramic view of his domain, from the kitchen and timber banquette stage right to the large communal table and outdoor seating stage left. The theatre-speak is intentional: the eatery's moniker is one of several nods to show business, such as the red velvet-roped entrance and fringe chandeliers above the communal table. But it's not gaudy, it's considered — as is most of Matinee's make-up. There are two menus, one for drinks and treats, plus one for eats, to explore. For drinks, coffee is a custom in-house blend — which is available to purchase, plus there are vegan shakes and the aforementioned alcohol. The majority of sweets — including a delectable passionfruit tart and caramel slice — are vegan and gluten-free. In fact, tell-tale symbols for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free appear all over the menu, again signalling a well-thought out approach, rather than a tokenistic one. For the most part, the kitchen has avoided fads (à la cronuts) and instead does fresh takes on well-worn cafe favourites. The karaage chicken burger with shoestring fries is flavoursome and the sweet potato fritters are a winner, particularly when hacked with haloumi. As a bacon fiend, the menu staple thick cut bourbon bacon is a welcome addition to both dishes. On the sweeter side, you've got a perfectly balanced buckweet brekkie trifle with passionfruit curd and coconut yoghurt and the tiramisu waffle. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also ask for the current specials. All of these menu items, and more, are available all day. Modern attention spans mean that Sydney folk often get bored quickly with new cafes. Let's hope the curtain stays risen on Matinee. Images: Letícia Almeida Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Cafes for Working or Studying in Sydney
Ever set foot in a venue and wondered, 'How?'. How did they transform the idea from a dream on a napkin into a café, bar or restaurant that gets people through the door time and time again? This is the thinking behind In Service, a new on-demand masterclass platform made for current and future hospitality owners. Created by the business solution experts Square, the free learning resource dives straight into the reality of running a hospitality business from the people who have done it themselves. From scaling to staff, marketing to menus, In Service gives you practical lessons directly from the best in the Australian hospitality industry—the ones who have built (and sustained) successful venues. It's real business owners serving up real strategies. Who's involved? A number of influential hospitality owners are offering their knowledge and experience on In Service. [caption id="attachment_1032997" align="alignleft" width="1920"] In Service[/caption] At Fabbrica, what began as a line of retail pasta kits has evolved into multiple pasta bars across Sydney. In Fabbrica's lesson, Head Chef Scott and General Manager Marlon teach business owners how to diversify their revenue and the differences between retail and restaurant operations. CHAE is a home-based intimate dining experience in Melbourne. The Korean eatery serves only six guests per session, but the exclusivity has created a wait list of thousands. Co-owners Chae and Yoora share their insights on building a community and their growth strategies. [caption id="attachment_909508" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Bar Copains[/caption] One of Sydney's most beloved wine bars, Bar Copains, has stood out in a crowded market. In his lesson, co-owner Morgan teaches why every detail counts and the mindset that has guests coming back for more. MUCHO Group, the team behind bars including Bar Planet, The Cliff Dive, Centro 86 and more, have also offered their peer-to-peer advice. General Manager, Daisy, shares their tips on service and training staff. It's not just restaurants and bars teaching their lessons. Calibrate Coffee has created an elevated brand and venue that focuses on high-end beans. Co-founder Josh shares how to build a team as well as how to create an inviting (and efficient) space. [caption id="attachment_939881" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Centro 86[/caption] As well as practical lessons on how to run a venue and team, design studios SCCO and Worktones, and Tom Mark Henry have offered their expert tips on how to design a hospitality venue and build your business's identity. Whether you're an early-stage café owner trying to find your footing or a seasoned operator looking to sharpen your team, In Service is the free platform that lets you learn from the best in the business, and all at your own pace. Square empowers local businesses to thrive by making it easier to run, manage, and grow their operations. Find out how Square can help your business grow. Sign up for free at In Service. Lead image: In Service
Just a ten-minute walk from Circular Quay and The Rocks, The Langham Sydney is the epitome of boutique indulgence. With only 96 exquisite rooms on offer, demand for even just one night at this Sydney institution is high all year round. And with facilities like its fitness centre, sauna, day spa and a spectacular 20-metre indoor pool with a star-dappled sky ceiling, you'll find it hard to tear yourself away from the hotel to explore the busy areas that surround it. Within the suites, expect plush furniture, high ceilings and large windows over-looking the western side of the harbour. Bed and breakfast specials are also on offer, as is a 'pampered pets program' — making it one of Sydney's only pet-friendly accommodation options at luxury level. We are also very big fans of The Langham's traditional afternoon tea. Enjoy a bespoke version of this beloved British tradition, elevated with classic Wedgwood tea ware and The Langham's champagne of choice, Laurent-Perrier. Feel fancy with all the crustless sandwiches and dainty cakes. Then there's Kitchens on Kent — starring one of Sydney's most high end hotel buffets that celebrates local produce and technical excellence in the kitchen. Appears in: The Best Hotels in Sydney The 15 Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Australia Sydney's Best Spa Experiences The Ten Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Sydney
UPDATE: MAY 24, 2019 — To celebrate the launch of one of the country's biggest transport projects, the Metro North West, all travel on its first day will be free. No Opal Cards required, folks. The railway line's 13 station doors will open to the public for the first time at 11am on Sunday, May 26, with the last train leaving Rouse Hill for Chatswood at 9.35pm. That means you could spend 635 minutes of your weekend riding Sydney's sparkly new driverless trains. Or, not. Anyway, the option is there. For more info, head to the NSW Government website. One of Australia's biggest transport projects is almost complete. While it's not the never-ending southeast light rail project, it's almost as exciting. It's Sydney's new $8.3 billion Metro North West railway line, a 36-kilometre journey linking Rouse Hill and Chatswood — and it's set to be a a major win for commuters in the area. The new railway line — and its sparkly new driverless trains — is officially launching on Sunday, May 26, and the government is promising turn-up-and-go services every four minutes (in each direction) during peak times. No timetable necessary. According to the ABC, trains from Chatswood to the city will run every three minutes to cope with the increased commuter traffic, with the number of trains during the morning peak increasing from 120 an hour to 200. The Metro North West is just one part of the government's overall Sydney Metro project, which will, along with Metro City and Metro Southwest, see a new railway linking Rouse Hill to Chatswood, travelling under the Sydney Harbour to the city, then down to Bankstown. Sydney Metro West will link the city to Parramatta. Running on all lines will be the new driverless trains. At this point; however, the final stages of the billion-dollar project — Metro Southwest and West, specifically — are not expected to be completed until 2024. [caption id="attachment_705425" align="alignnone" width="1920"] A map of Sydney Metro North West, City and South West.[/caption] The Metro North West line has had a swag of major rail upgrades, including 13 fully accessible revamped train stations, 4000 new carparks and platform screen doors installed at all Sydney Metro stations. The government has made it easier to get to the new stations, too, with 1500 additional weekly services and modified routes introduced to the existing bus network. To check if your bus has been impacted, head to the Transport for NSW website. During the new railway line's first six weeks, it will build to max capacity, with trains initially running every five minutes during peak hours and some supplementary late-night buses running after 9.30pm from Sunday through Wednesday. The Metro North West will officially launch on Sunday, May 26. You can read more information about the Sydney Metro project at sydneymetro.info.
Travel back to the glory days of the late oughts, when Two Door Cinema Club's jangly guitars and undeniably catchy synth lines ruled the world of indie-dance. With the band returning to Sydney, selling out a headline show at the Hordern Pavilion within days, TDCC has just added a second and final appearance at the venue. And for OG fans of the band, it's set to be a show dripping with nostalgia. That's because Two Door Cinema Club will perform their acclaimed debut album Tourist History in full, giving a huge sell-out crowd the chance to relive the band's greatest hits, including 'What You Know', 'Something Good Can Work' and 'Undercover Martyn'. Yet the band won't be doing it alone, inviting The Vaccines to ramp up the indie-laced hooks and rhythms even further. Linking up for this special run of shows, this top-notch support act will celebrate the 15th anniversary of their breakthrough record, performing What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? in full. Happening on Sunday, November 22, Millennials everywhere can expect a night to remember. After all, it's not every day you get to experience an era-defining album from start to finish, while reminiscing on the late-night house parties, the dance floor jams, the tight jeans and excessively long fringes that came and went.
Earlier this year, Mondrian Hotels launched its debut Australian stay just steps from the iconic Burleigh Heads beachfront. And like its other design-first accommodation, spanning glam locations from Los Angeles to Cannes to Seoul, the Aussie foray brought wall-to-wall luxury brimming with natural light, million-dollar views and a calming neutral colour palette. Now Modrian has opened reservations for its two highly anticipated Beach Houses. Following a similar rhythm to the hotel towers, this addition offers something of a residential experience (if you could imagine being so lucky), just with the service and amenities of a world-class hotel. Guided by acclaimed Los Angeles–based designers, Studio Carter, guests can expect privacy, luxury and bespoke hospitality. Across two- and three-bedroom stays, you can live out the beachfront lifestyle of your dreams. Accessed through private entrances, both through the hotel lobby or off the esplanade, these homes away from home come complete with magnesium plunge pools, terraces primed for entertaining, convenient laundry facilities and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces that invite the Gold Coast warmth. Meanwhile, a full-sized kitchen enhances the long-stay appeal while bringing another level of residential comfort. The smaller details are just as impressive. Think sandy-toned interiors that reflect the laidback essence of the hotel and relaxed textural finishes inspired by coastal life. In fact, those seeking the most opulent stay can combine both residences into a five-bedroom retreat, perfect for big family vacations or celebrations with all your pals. Of course, a five-star stay like this also comes with plenty of guest perks. That includes expedited in-suite check-in, a curated gourmet welcome basket and a personal host and contact throughout your stay. Plus, you'll relish a daily à la carte breakfast at LiTO, the in-house Italian restaurant, and make the most of personalised experiences, from private chefs cooking up a feast to spa and beauty appointments, VIP restaurant and bar reservations, shopping services and more. Naturally, you're also welcome to enjoy the rest of the hotel's amenities. Step into Haven, serving elevated coastal cuisine, or slide into the Ciel Spa for holistic remedies and a high-performance gym. When it's time to explore beyond the hotel, the stunning stretch of Burleigh Heads is directly across from your accom, while the suburb's easy-breezy restaurants, bars and shops are just a few steps away. Mondrian Gold Coast's Beach Houses are now open for bookings at 3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads. Visit the website for more information. Images: Justin Nicholas.
"Margot met Robert on a Wednesday night toward the end of her fall semester." So starts the only thing that everyone was reading, and also talking about, in December 2017. Published by The New Yorker, Kristen Roupenian's Cat Person is a short story unparalleled in its viral fame. A piercingly matter-of-fact account of a dating nightmare, the piece of fiction became a literary and online phenomenon. Cat Person didn't just spark discourse about modern romance, relationship power dynamics, 21st-century communication, age gaps and more; it monopolised them, as fuelled by the internet, of course, and arriving as the #MeToo movement was at its early heights. Releasing it as a book, still as a 7000-word piece, came next. Now there's the film that was always bound to happen. As a movie, Cat Person can count the Twitter-to-cinema Zola as a peer in springboarding from digital phenomenon to picture palaces, and it too aims for a specific vibe: the feeling that the world experienced while first roving their eyes over the details on their phone, tablet or computer screen. Cat Person and Zola have another glaring similarity: enlisting Succession's Nicholas Braun to infuse his Cousin Greg awkwardness into a wild tale. Here, he's the Robert that Margot encounters while "working behind the concession stand at the artsy movie theatre downtown when he came in and bought a large popcorn and a box of Red Vines", as Roupenian's story explains in its second sentence — and as filmmaker Susanna Fogel, the director of The Spy Who Dumped Me and one of Booksmart's writers, shows on-screen. Actors' performances don't exist in a vacuum for audiences. Unless you somehow missed the four-season Roy family shenanigans, plus all the rightly deserved attention around it, going into Cat Person unaware of Braun's best-known role is impossible. Self-consciousness, haplessness and discomfort are expected twice over of the man that Margot sells snacks to, then. Much follows. With Michelle Ashford (Operation Mincemeat) adapting Roupenian's text, Cat Person still starts unfurling as readers know it will, with Robert eventually asking Margot (Emilia Jones, CODA) out, then flirty missives bouncing back and forth via SMS daily across several weeks. She's 20 and he's 33, but she doesn't clock quite the size of that age discrepancy initially. She enjoys the banter, the thrill of connecting and the buzz of being wanted. Margot has a crush, patently, complete with telling her mother (Hope Davis, Asteroid City) and stepfather (Christopher Shyer, The Night Agent) about it when she's back at home over the break. In their exchanges, Robert advises that he has two cats, too — a tidbit worthy of a title because of what it says and softens about him, and what it also screams if those felines aren't real. Margot and Robert's rapport with their phones in their hands is natural yet often cringey, but only the latter translates whenever they meet in-person again. Still, the pair keep gravitating towards each other. Locking lips leads to "a terrible kiss, shockingly bad". The sex, which Fogel gives an out-of-body spin for Margot as a coping mechanism, is even worse. Regrets and ghosting then flow on Margot's part, while the rejected Robert floods bubbles of unwelcome anger her way. Roupenian's version is as well-known for how it ends as for everything that precedes its final word, but Fogel and Ashford had two options in making Cat Person into a movie: filling a film's running time by fleshing out its minutiae or building upon the once-in-a-decade short story, including its unforgettable ending. Their choice: doing both, actually, with their Cat Person spending 118 minutes to relay its narrative. In comes a Harrison Ford obsession for Robert, packaged with the telling revelation that he considers a Belgian bootleg of Working Girl to be the height of cinema sophistication. Margot becomes an anthropology major with a worshipped professor (Isabella Rossellini, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) studying ants — and the college student's roommate is now the feminist subreddit-moderating Taylor (Geraldine Viswanathan, Miracle Workers), still with firmly blunt thoughts on dealing with Robert's rebuffed behaviour. In wanders a lost dog in front of their dorm, too, plus imagined sessions with a therapist (Fred Melamed, Barry) who constantly verbalises the movie's subtext, an asexual ex and a Marilyn Monroe-aping singing stint. And, in drops a third act that swings big, even for a film that wants to be a thriller, a black comedy, a cautionary tale and then a horror flick all at once. Rossellini, Davis and Melamed lend presence more than anything else, but casting remains crucial to Cat Person's quest to recreate the sensations that swelled and swirled around the feature's source material six years back. As it incited conversation, debate, devotion and memes, Roupenian's story was an in-her-shoes read — and Jones' starring performance evokes the same reaction. With the rising Locke & Key talent playing savvy yet naive and interested yet cautious, it's easy to understand the emotions, joys, doubts and fears that cycle through Margot. Pivotally, it's easy to dive into Margot and Robert's projections, too, as Jones and Braun keeping bob towards and away from each other in a purposefully anti-chemistry match. Whether it goes smoothly, horrifically, embarrassing and something in-between, what's dating if not two people filtering their own thoughts and feelings through one another? And how often is ambiguity and clashing perceptions the outcome, as well as the realisation that what we want from and spot in the person we're seeing differs from their peek into and desires for us? As Cat Person takes this on-screen journey, it's guilty of doing what everyone desperately wants in a relationship but never gets: explaining everything. Accordingly, not every new inclusion works, especially when new characters largely spout metaphors or imaginings just state the obvious. That said, there's ambition in this tensely shot (by Manfuel Billeter, The Gilded Age) and edited (by Jacob Craycroft, Pachinko) film's additions and expansions to the text. Most beats, tonal shifts, sidesteps into neatness and descents into horror help flesh out an examination of ill-advised choices, clumsy hookups, jarring perspectives, and life's ever-present dangers and uncertainties — and relatably at that. Fogel tackled much the same as a director on The Flight Attendant; Promising Young Woman sprang from Saltburn's Emerald Fennell instead, but consider it another influence upon this intriguing rollercoaster ride of a movie.
Sometimes you just want an ice-cold schooner of Reschs and a good old-fashioned pub feed. In Paddington these days, though, such can be hard to come by. Thankfully, Oxford Street's Paddo RSL provides all the the no-frills atmosphere you're after. Here, the the beer is flowing and you can get a steak for a reasonable $13. Plus, it claims itself to be the 'home of live music in Paddington', which isn't too far off. You'll often find Tom Waits tribute nights and emerging local artists cutting their teeth here, as well as the RSL's regular cabaret night Show Queen Sessions.
We know. We've all done it. Home alone with a block of cheddar, a few scraps of brie and a lone Kraft Single. It all seemed so promising. When your mum/housemate/significant other returned, though, the truth became apparent. You'd made a cheese quagmire in your microwave, hadn't you? Hadn't you. Fortunately, the guys behind PappaRich, the ST Group, have been helping us realise all of our cheese dreams without the weird kitchen smell three weeks later — bringing Malaysian chain Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart to Australia. With multiple stores in Kuala Lumpur and other areas of the country, the cheese tart connoisseurs currently have five across Victoria, one in Sydney's World Square. Now, they're opening two more Sydney stores, launching one within Macquarie Centre on June 16 and a Burwood store inside Westfield opening Saturday, July 8. Their namesake is the cornerstone of their offering: a savoury-sweet three-cheese situation encased in a shortcrust shell, designed to be eaten either hot or cold. The cheese, while made with local produce, is based on the distinct taste and texture of the dairy products of Hokkaido. The Japanese island is known for their dairy — it produces half of Japan's total milk and a huge 90 percent of their natural cheese — and HBCT have worked tirelessly to replicate it. Malaysia has gone nuts for it, and Australia has jumped firmly on board —people have been queuing out the door to get their hands on one (or 12).
Pyrmont's not exactly known for its food and drinks scene but if you know where to look there are gems to be found. Mister Percy is one such place. An inviting wine bar and restaurant hidden within the sandstone walls of the Ovolo 1888, Mister Percy has had a few iterations over the few years that it's been open but the seductive mood and inspired wine list remain the common threads. Mister Percy is named in honour of Percy Ewart, a former wool classer who worked in the site's original wool store — hints of which remain among the blend of leather, marble, plush fabrics and paintings, paying homage to its history while simultaneously celebrating the contemporary. If you settle in for dinner, the offering from the kitchen is a blend of Mediterranean cuisine, Japanese flavours and mainstays of contemporary Australian menus (I see you burrata and flash fried calamari!). You don't have to skim far on the menu, created by Head Chef Carmela Cordero, to encounter the influence of Japan — from the soy mirin glaze on the risotto to the miso dashi sauce served with the grilled fish. The snack selection of the menu is a particular stand-out for accompanying an evening experimenting with the wine list (more on that shortly) but another option is the four-course 'feed me' menu which, at $75 per person with paired wines for an additional $50, is a pretty reasonable decision-free date night. But ultimately, at its heart and in execution, Mister Percy is a wine bar and it is the drinks list that makes the biggest impact thanks to the thoughtful curation of Sommelier Luis Manzanares. The wine list is surprisingly dynamic with heaps of unexpected drops you rarely see in a standard hotel bar, including a great range of Spanish wines, skin contact by the glass and bottle, and some lesser-represented Australian producers. Expect to kick back with excellent drops like the 2021 Neldner Road shiraz or the elegant Remelluri reserva tempranillo, many of which are available by the glass. Impress your date with your own selections or leave yourself in Mr Manzanares's safe hands.
It was true when Seinfeld made a series about a real-life standup comedian playing a fictionalised version of himself one of the world's biggest sitcoms in the 90s. It remained accurate when Larry David started riffing on his own existence in Curb Your Enthusiasm, which will end in 2024 after 12 seasons over a quarter-century — and also when Pete Davidson leapt from making his life movie fodder in The King of Staten Island to turning it into TV in Bupkis. Donald Glover wasn't directly referencing his own career in Atlanta, and neither The Other Two nor Girls5eva bring exact replicas of real-life figures to the screen, but the same idea pumps through them as well: fame or proximity to it doesn't stop anyone from grappling with life's frustrating minutiae. Add The Vince Staples Show to the list, too, with the five-part Netflix limited series arriving on Thursday, February 15 and featuring its namesake as a take on himself. Whether or not you know who he is is part of the show's joke. On- and off- screen, he's a rapper and actor. Staples' very real single 'Norf Norf' gets quoted to him in the TV comedy. The fact that he's been in Abbott Elementary is referenced in the debut episode. But just attempting to have an ordinary day doing everyday things in an average way — driving home, heading to the bank, attending a family reunion, visiting an amusement park and returning to his old school — is as impossible for him as it is for us all. Sometimes, Staples' celebrity complicates matters in The Vince Staples Show. It also never helps. Usually, he's stuck navigating Murphy's law, so asking for a loan ends up with him caught up in a robbery, while endeavouring to source something decent to eat at a theme park takes him on an absurdist odyssey that winks at David Lynch and the Coen brothers. Having an entertainment career doesn't stop him from being confused for someone else by the police (Killing It's Scott MacArthur, You People's Bryan Greenberg and The Menu's Arturo Castro) — the same cops who ask for free tickets to his shows while they're locking him up — or ensure that cashiers treat him politely. If it assists with anything, it's with giving Staples a deadpan acceptance that anything and everything might come his way. Twice asked if something interesting happened during his day by his girlfriend Deja (Andrea Ellsworth, Truth Be Told), his reply is "not really", even though viewers have just witnessed the exact opposite in both instances. Detailing his real resume isn't the series' style, but the IRL Staples has one. Hailing from Long Beach, California, where The Vince Staples Show is also set — well, in a dreamlike version of it — his association with hip hop collective Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All helped bring him to attention. (Frank Ocean, Tyler, the Creator and Earl Sweatshirt have also been members.) 'Big Fish' and 'Magic' are among his singles. He's enjoyed support slots on Childish Gambino's This Is America tour, several times for Tyler, the Creator and even for Flume in Australia in 2016. Dope and the 2023 White Men Can't Jump remake are on Staples' filmography, plus Insecure and voicing Lazor Wulf's eponymous animated wolf on the small screen. Knowing this isn't crucial to watching The Vince Staples Show, however. That said, it does demonstrate how keenly he's tearing down the idea that pop-culture success means a life of ease in this sharp satire. Each of the series' quintet of instalments largely takes place in one setting. Each shares a naming convention: 'Pink House', 'Black Business', 'Brown Family', 'Red Door' and 'White Boy'. And, each charts events that both are and aren't the norm, all while questioning what's really ordinary anyway. As every episode gets pondering, it does so in layers, skewing surreal but also dissecting race and class in the process (Atlanta comes to mind frequently). In the opening chapter, where Staples spends a night in jail after being arrested on an outstanding warrant, the rapper-with-a-criminal-record stereotype is unpacked and mass incarceration becoming its own industry is called out, for instance. Also, a cellmate keeps singing, hoping to score a collaboration. Someone in a neighbouring cell threatens violence against Staples on sight. Then, when he's given something to eat, his sandwich comes with a draw-two Uno card inside. There's no weak episodes in The Vince Staples Show's five-part run (and no weak performances, either). In the second chapter, which nods to 1995 film Dead Presidents, holding up a bank has rarely been this bizarre. Staples is only onsite to get funding for his dream of starting a healthy cereal brand, which the manager scoffs at. Then, it turns out that one of the robbers (Myles Bullock, Black Mafia Family) is a childhood pal. When the series sends Vince, Deja and his mother Anita (Vanessa Bell Calloway, This Is Us) to a family barbecue next, mac 'n' cheese proves a source of pride and the reason to hold a grudge. Hell hath no fury like someone instructed to bring a prize dish, only to discover that a cousin (Staci Lynn Fletcher, The Neighbourhood) got there first. Staples also navigates his relatives' reactions to his success — wanting to be involved, but thinking that his celebrity represents more than it does. As Staples and Deja take her younger brother and his friends to a beach-themed attraction, the artificiality of all amusement parks and the concept of packaged happiness is thrust into view. Announcements over the loudspeaker are particularly biting, and falling afoul of the costumed mascots sparks repercussions. In the final episode, the show's protagonist is asked back to his childhood school to chat to the students. The kids don't care but a classmate (Patrick Walker, Lessons in Chemistry) he knew back in the day does. Cue a showdown with nods to Quentin Tarantino — both Kill Bill and Pulp Fiction — alongside Barry, another Californian-set comedy that's as perceptive as it is hilarious, as well as exceptionally well-shot. Staples writes, stars and executive produces The Vince Staples Show, with help: Ian Edelman (How to Make It in America) and Maurice Williams (Entergalactic) co-created it with him, while Kenya Barris (Black-ish) also executive produces. As the series gets gleefully but pointedly offbeat — proving uncanny while making more than a few statements — he also leaves viewers wanting more. Its five episodes are so easy to binge in one sitting (and timed accordingly, with each chapter between 19–26 minutes in length) that initially pressing play means settling in for the full experience. Anything interesting happen? Yes, immensely, unpredictably, hilariously and brilliantly. Check out the trailer for The Vince Staples Show below: The Vince Staples Show streams via Netflix from Thursday, February 15, 2024.
Long considered Australia's go-to whale-watching spot, Queensland's Hervey Bay is now the world's first whale heritage site, too. Located a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Brisbane, the Fraser Coast city was bestowed the prestigious honours at this year's World Whale Conference, which was held in coastal locale over the past week — receiving the accreditation not only due to its considerable whale population across the second half of each year, but thanks to its respectful and responsible embrace of the animals throughout the community. Established by the World Cetacean Alliance, the Whale Heritage Site scheme aims to recognise places that "preserve cetacean species and their habitats". More broadly, the initiative is designed to promote the globe's most responsible whale and dolphin-watching destinations; help protect marine habitats by supporting local communities, especially when it comes to sustainable practices; and assist the development of spots that depend on the sea, particularly by encouraging folks to appreciate the significance of whales in the area. If you've ever headed north to spy the majestic creatures — or even just for a holiday — it's impossible to spend time in Hervey Bay without being reminded of its whale-focused eco-tourism industry. From July to November each year, humpback whales head up from Antarctica, using the site to rest and socialise on the way to their breeding grounds in the Whitsundays. Then, towards the end of the season, they pass by again on the 5000-kilometre journey back down south — which is when whale-watchers can see mother whales spending time teaching their young calves in the local waters. Naturally, there's no shortage of whale-watching tours in the area. Visitors can also head to the Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere, which, as well as featuring a 12-metre-high whale sculpture and a full-sized reproduction of a whale skeleton, explores and celebrates humpback whales and their place in the region. And, each July and August, the city also hosts the annual Hervey Bay Whale Festival. Already quite the tourist drawcard, the new WHS accreditation is expected to attract more visitors, unsurprisingly. Nearly 60,000 people went whale-watching in the region last year, Fraser Coast Tourism general manager Martin Simons told the ABC. While Hervey Bay earned the first whale heritage site slot, it's not the only spot to receive the nod, with The Bluff in Durban in South Africa named the second WHS site. Other locations under consideration include Vancouver Island North in Canada, Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand, Mosaic Jurubatiba in Brazil and Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. Images: Mark Seabury via Visit Fraser Coast.
An author who paid others to pen his books. A flagrant womaniser and gambler. Someone who'd lose his last franc rather than live within his means. Obsessed with keeping up appearances in Parisian artistic circles, Henry Gauthier-Villars (Dominic West) — or Willy, as he preferred to be called — was many things. He's certainly the least interesting part of a story that shouldn't be about him, but the real-life figure's actions guaranteed otherwise. Marrying Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette (Keira Knightley) when she was 20, and putting her to work when he was desperate for ghostwriters, he claimed her autobiographical Claudine novels as his own. He also refused to give her any credit despite years of success — and even went as far as locking Colette in a room for hours when he wanted her to increase her literary output. While it might seem awkward to start a review of Colette's biopic by thrusting her first husband to the fore, that was her married life with Willy in a nutshell. There's no doubting that they loved each other, at least initially, however his sense of importance cast a long shadow. The conventions of the era didn't help; it was difficult for women to be taken seriously in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and impossible for Colette to get her books published under her own name. But hers isn't a tale of a talent simply finding her calling against the odds. Rather, as handsomely directed by Wash Westmoreland, it's one of a woman breaking free of a man's control, society's expectations and gender-based constraints. More than that, it's still devastatingly timely. Co-scripted by Westmoreland along with his Still Alice co-director Richard Glatzer and Disobedience screenwriter Rebecca Lenkiewicz, there's a wily air about Colette from the outset. It's evident when Colette is glimpsed rushing through her family's modest Burgundy estate for a secret, lusty rendezvous with Willy. It's apparent, too, when she discovers her husband's philandering ways, and demands that she's no longer ignored and overlooked. Indeed, every time that Colette is pushed aside, she fights back. Whether she's dismissed for her country upbringing, left stranded at home while Willy goes out on the town, or threatened with scandal when she enjoys relationships with women, she rallies against the limitations placed upon her. Earning recognition for her own work might be her toughest hurdle — even more so than the response to her move into acting — but Colette was adept at bursting through boundaries. Often considered restrained or aloof in period dramas such as The Duchess and A Dangerous Method, Knightley frequently uses those traits to her advantage in Colette. Her protagonist isn't distant, but she does boast a sense of steeliness — one that, in another tale, might've been mistaken for detachment. That said, it's when the actor subverts expectations that she turns in some of her most memorable work in recent years, selling her character's full wit, charm and impact. Though never lacking in self-assurance, Colette proves as spontaneous and spirited as she does determined and resolute. She's someone who's always comfortable in her own skin, even when she's told that she shouldn't be, as is continually made plain in Knightley's lively and lived-in central performance. In a movie about a woman blazing brightly, it should come as no surprise that its star is the cast's standout. West's take on Willy is purposefully and convincingly grating, while Eleanor Tomlinson (Jack the Giant Slayer) and Denise Gough (Juliet, Naked), playing Colette's lovers, are barely given room to flesh out their parts. Still, they each add detail to a film that's never just celebratory. In chronicling the formative years of one of the greatest female literary figures of her time (and of all time), Westmoreland's biographical picture compellingly delves into the world that made its subject who she was. Domineering men, gossipy parties, the superficial pleasures of ornate wallpaper and costuming — to understand why Colette was most at home in her family garden, or pouring her life onto the page, or breaking fashion taboos by wearing a suit, is to first understand everything that the iconic author was told to be, yet chose to ignore. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnTNgZz4Sm0
This is a good activity to keep in mind at all times, but especially when you're feeling a little adventurous. Shake up your Monday night and drop by Ester in Chippendale for a treat. You can act like a hardcore foodie and order the "blood sausage sanga", straight up, without even looking at the menu. What you'll get is a sausage made from minced pork belly, rice, nuts and pig's blood, set on a simple piece of white bread. It's arguably a much better version of the humble sausage sandwich — delicious, rich and indulgent. If you're in the mood, and have some extra money to spend, buckle down and tuck in to Ester's set menu — ten inventive courses (dried kanagaroo and crispy saltbush is another option) for $82. Image: @ahazelton_ via Instagram.
Marrickville's Poor Toms gin distillery has been turning out one of the best locally made spirits since 2015 — it's so good, in fact, that they crowdfunded over $25,000 in one day to make the stuff. Now, after three years of operation, owners Griffin Blumer and Jesse Kennedy are finally ready to share their distillery with the inner west masses. The mates have just opened the doors of their Chalder Avenue gin hall to the public. Located just around the corner from Sauce Brewing and the soon-to-be-open Stockade, as well as a quick walk from Batch, Grifter and Wildflower, the gin hall is nicely situated within the suburb's craft booze haven. All this beer in one vicinity creates an opening for another alcoholic option, and Poor Toms is ready to oblige. "We wanted the bar to be an oasis of sorts," says Blumer. "Marrickville is very industrial and noisy with no trees, so we imagined it would be really nice to have a lush oasis to sort of step into off the dusty concrete streets. It's got this church-in-the-middle-of-the-desert kind of thing going [on]." This vibe has been realised with tons of hanging plants, each in custom-made pots, and a chapel-like archway that towers over the back bar and lights the booze on offer. The bar itself is custom-built and marble-topped, and the tables and chairs were also built from scratch. Neighbour Jack Dunbar teamed up with friend Grant Wallwork on the design and it's simple, yet inviting. "All the tables are at bar height, so everything is on this one plane," says Blumer. These give more of a communal feel to the space — there'll be no hiding in the shadows here. The drinks will of course centre on Poor Toms and each gin will have its own signature cocktail. As of next week, this list will rotate weekly in an effort to keep locals coming back for more — think negronis with house-made Amaro, strawberry creaming soda with dry gin and Lillet Blanc, or the Stoned Last Words with green chartreuse plum and Vietnamese mint. The bar will also sell gin hall exclusives for takeaway, like the Old Tom, sweetened by strawberry, cardamom, hibiscus and ginger. For food, the bar's joined forces with nearby Pizza Madre for delivery on Fridays and Saturdays and, for now, will offer sausage sizzles on Sundays.
The Crows Nest Hotel has unveiled a $1.6-million glow-up, and it's now open for everything from long lunches to late-night parties. After months of on-the-go renovations, the North Shore institution has scored a shiny new look, giving punters even more reason to make it a go-to for midweek feeds, Sunday sessions and weekend blowouts. As part of its smart new look, The Crowie now boasts a dedicated dining room — its very first since it opened in 1929. There's also a revamped rooftop with a DJ booth and dining area, as well as a refreshed front bar which will feature live bands and drag bingo on its weekly lineup. Of course, a new dining room means a new menu. Head Chef Nathaniel 'Nico' Madrangca (ex-Kirribilli Hotel, Bill & Toni's) and his team will be dishing up crowd-pleasers like a whole slow-roasted lamb shoulder with lemon potatoes and pita, souvlaki plates with all the fixings, and a steak sandwich with salsa verde and caramelised onion. There's a host of pub classics on offer too, from burgers and wings to chicken parmies and an impressive range of steaks. One thing that hasn't changed is the pub's midweek deals. Swing by on a Tuesday to grab an $18 schnitty, or make your Thursday one for the books with 50-cent wings and drink specials. The sleek new main bar has a smart new drinks menu to match. The playful cocktail program features tipples like a burnt pineapple and jalapeño margarita, mandarin mojito and limoncello-powered long island iced tea. Meanwhile, the revised wine list now includes pét-nats and chilled reds. The Crowie has long been known as a certified nightlife hub, and that's another thing that's not changing. Friday nights in the front bar mean live bands from 9pm and DJs spinning from midnight until 3am, with the rooftop hosting its own rotation of DJs from 5pm. On Saturday nights, you'll find DJs on the rooftop from 7pm and in the front room from 11pm, keeping the party going into the early hours with a mix of funk, disco and R&B. Since 1929, the Crows Nest Hotel has been a popular go-to for North Shore natives — nearly 100 years on, it's ready for its second act. The Crows Nest Hotel is open daily until late and can be found at 1 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest. For more info, head to the venue's website.
Addicted to the grind? We understand. You may not be taking as many trips to your local cafe for barista-made flat whites for the next week, but there are ways to stay keen for the bean, while staying safely at home for as long as it takes for the wave to pass. During the peak of lockdown in 2020, several roasters had to reduce their cafe operations, but they kept roasting, grinding and shipping coffee to customers — with some offering free delivery. Many roasters offer subscriptions for those plunging more at-home brews than ever before, some have online stores of equipment so you can up your home brewing game, and a few have sample packs and isolation gift boxes (as well as cute merch) so that we can make the most of this temporary shift in our daily habits. Here are 12 of the best roasters delivering the goods. If you choose to pick up your beans, make sure you follow the government's latest advice on social distancing. [caption id="attachment_693510" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tom Ross[/caption] EVERYDAY COFFEE The Melbourne-based micro roaster delivers espresso, filter and decaf blends, as well as your requisite brewing gear — filter papers, pour-over cones, AeroPress kits and more. If you're familiar with Everyday Coffee's cafe blends, order a bag of All Day Espresso ($16), which goes well with milky coffees for a dark chocolate and caramel flavour, or a sweet and malty black coffee. Add your grind instructions at checkout and you should have your beans via Express Post within two-to-four days. In it for the long haul? Everyday offers subscriptions to deliver freshly roasted beans to your door. Select how you make your coffee and your preferred quantity, with prices starting at $20 for 250 grams. [caption id="attachment_813753" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Abigail Varney[/caption] MARKET LANE Prefer your beans with an aesthetically pleasing Pantone-esque packaging design? Market Lane not only offers free standard shipping for all orders over $40 within Australia but also make your kitchen shelf look excellent. The coffee retailer sells beans roasted for all filter brew methods, including pour over and plunger and, right now, all their shops are open for takeaways during their usual operating hours. For the bean fiends among you, Market Lane's vending machine is on 126 Weston Street, Brunswick East and is switched on 24/7 so you'll never go empty handed. Those further afield will get theirs via Australia Post, allowing up to five days for shipping. Fond of commitment? Join the Coffee Club, which ships beans every two weeks for $20 (for 250 grams). SAMPLE COFFEE Pacemaker is Sample Coffee's year-round house blend that has a Cherry Ripe-style flavour profile and goes well with milk. The Sydney roaster has subscription services for a range of blends, delivered across the country and ground to your preference, every week, fortnight or month. A 250-gram bag is between $15.80–23.80 per delivery and quantities go up to four kilograms. The online shop also has eight single origin blends, with bags starting from $16.20, plus brewing gear like cold brew pots, mini grinders and speciality kettles, but note delivery costs are calculated based on weight and distance. LOGGERHEAD Small scale Sydney roaster Loggerhead takes delivery orders up until Tuesday, 3pm, for its weekly Wednesday roast. Its online shop has Nespresso-compatible capsules from $10 a box (of ten), and a selection of roasted blends that start at $13 for 200 grams. So if you'd rather save those essential trips out for the supermarket you can select size, roast and grind preference online. To quote the words on the Loggerhead website: rip in. MECCA COFFEE Mecca Coffee, roasted in Alexandria, Sydney, serves up its orange, honeycomb and chocolatey house blend along with six other options through the website. It's offering ten-percent off all coffee and equipment, too, as well as free shipping on all orders over $30. Just as you can for any coffee order, you can select how your beans are ground if you'd like to skip the arm workout. Sydney deliveries take 1-2 business days and for Melbourne (along with Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra) orders should arrive within 3-5 business days via Australia Post. Looking for a longer term relationship? The Blend Subscription will set up within fortnightly deliveries, making sure you'll never have to worry about a caffeine shortage. ONA COFFEE If you want to geek out, Canberra-based Ona Coffee has an extensive online shop with merch — including winter-appropriate beanies and sweats — and some serious brew gear. There's also milky coffee blends Raspberry Candy, Black Betty, The Founder and The Hitman, which you can order to your brewing style. Filter fiends get some serious Central American single origins to choose from and specialty espresso roasts. Shipping is $10 or free when you spend over $75, and deliveries to Melbourne will reach you in 2-3 days. [caption id="attachment_635510" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] SINGLE O In Botany Bay, Sydney's Single O is roasting and packing orders of its seasonal blends, single-source coffee and equipment. Order before 2pm and your coffee (ground to your liking or in whole bean form) is dispatched the next working day. And right now they're offering free standard shipping. Single O has equipment starting from $7, T-shirts and other merch, gift vouchers and coffee subscriptions that are well worth a browse to complement a short- or long-term working from home arrangement. ST ALI South Melbourne's St Ali has been roasting the good stuff for 15 years. Its online shop has ethically sourced Feels Good organic espresso beans, the rich and butterscotch Wide Awake espresso blend, dark roast Italo Disco and apricot and orange sweet single origins. But St Ali doesn't stop there. You can pick up Nespresso compatible capsules filled with its two house blends from $65 for 60 pods. Need a restock of your hand sanitiser? St Ali makes its own formulation in good-looking bottles, along with a collection of products all about keeping you safe and sanitised. For Australia-wide deliveries of its coffees, there's free shipping on orders over $99 so go big or go home. SENSORY LAB Sensory Lab's coffee and subscriptions can be sent anywhere in Australia either weekly, fortnightly or monthly - and shipping is free, Australia wide (with no minimum order!). Packs of whole beans start at $14 for 250 grams, and you can dive into a selection of blends or single origin beans. From the sweet red apple and caramel notes of the excellently titled Kiorero Washing Station to the chocolaty palette of the Steadfast Espresso Blend, you're guaranteed to find your flavour. It also has a limited range of mugs, totes and equipment worth a look in. PROUD MARY Proud Mary roasts its coffee in Collingwood, where you've likely eaten at its two cafes, Aunty Peg's and the eponymous Proud Mary. Founder Nolan Hirte is considered a leader in Australia's specialty coffee industry, and his mission is bridging the gap between farmers and coffee drinkers — so now's as good a time as any to support that mission through Proud Mary's $24 coffee subscription. A fortnightly run of single origin filter is shipped on Wednesdays, which gets you around 16 cups-worth. Add a single bag to your cart from $15 for a blend, and up to $22 for a single-o and in 1–4 days you'll be treated to the candy-coloured surrealist cartoons of Proud Mary's packaging in the mail. SMALL BATCH North Melbourne's socially responsible Small Batch has been roasting exceptional coffee since 2009. The juicy Golden Ticket filter is a blend from two producers, from Ethiopia and Colombia, and you can see how many pesos per carga each producer was paid by Small Batch when you select your quantity and grind. Transparency in the supply chain is Small Batch's bag, and as you're enjoying a Candyman Espresso Blend, which has a malted milk and macadamia flavour when taken with milk, you can be sure of the fact that all four producers who farmed the coffee in the blend were paid above Fairtrade prices. Standard shipping is $8 across Australia and typically takes 2–3 days, while the $13 premium rate should get your beans to you the next day. [caption id="attachment_712131" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Industry Beans[/caption] AND MORE! In Adelaide, Monastery Coffee has free shipping on coffee orders over 250 grams with single origins starting at $16, and Elementary Coffee is shipping country-wide when you spend more than $30 (get the Young Street Blend used daily in its cafes). In Brisbane, Wolff Coffee Roasters has Australian International Coffee Awards-winning filter Hummingbird Vol 3 ready to ship for those after a fruity, gooseberry-driven flavour for $16. Industry Beans has espresso blends named for its cafe locations in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, with prices starting at $15. Melbourne's Code Black Coffee is offering free shipping Australia-wide for orders over $25, which means you could grab two bags of its signature 3056 blend (named for the postcode of the roastery) for $30. Then there's Axil Coffee, Black Market Roasters, Coffee Cartel and Reuben Hills all offering subscriptions. And, Edition Coffee Roasters is delivering Australia-wide with free delivery on orders over $50. So there really is no excuse for drinking bad coffee. Top image: Single O by Alana Dimou
Launching in the first week of February, one of Bondi Junction's historic public bars is rediscovering its roots with the arrival of Billy the Pig. Taking up residence in the former Eastern Hotel for the next 17 months, punters can expect a lively late-night haunt where drinks flow into the early hours. Meanwhile, a revamped lineup of counter meals and pub classics is complemented by live bands and DJs gracing the stage from week to week. Led by renowned restaurateur Maurice Terzini (Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, Purple Pit), this reimagined space serves as a love letter to no-frills public bars. The veneration starts with the residency's name – a direct homage to when this spot was called Billy the Pig's in the '90s. That name itself was a reference to the pub's gruff original owner from the 1950s, who had a reputation for treating his customers a bit like swine. Fortunately, when you cast your eyes over Terzini's latest incarnation, it's easy to see that the service has been given a little more thought. Here, classic Australian counter meals like chicken schnitzel, lasagne with beef ragù, and 250g minute steak are presented with a subtle Italian flair. Meanwhile, Terzini has also leant into nostalgia through enduring desserts like pavlova with banana cream, and golden syrup pudding with vanilla custard. There's also a tasty assortment of playful snacks adding to the sentimental theme, including party pies and Jatz with cheddar. To drink, expect a mix of Australian draft beers and craft creations, with varying happy hours reviving the six o'clock swill. Terzini also puts his deep knowledge of modern and minimal intervention wines to good use through a hand-picked selection of Australian and Italian varieties. Finally, an inventive cocktail list offers plenty of choices, with four classic, four modern and four late-night options certain to spark your interest. Made with high-end ingredients and no post mix, highlights include a lychee martini alongside a colada featuring three types of run. For a modern concoction, the No 207 combines Ketel One with Campari and ruby grapefruit, while you can level up the after-dark vibe with the fruit tingle's blend of Don Julio, blue curaçao, raspberry and lemonade. Whichever you choose, it's bound to pack a good punch. [caption id="attachment_681230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The former Eastern Hotel, Katje Ford[/caption] With a license letting Billy the Pig run wild until 3am, Bondi's weekends and weeknights will get a boost thanks to top-notch creative programming, spanning live bands, local producers and even the occasional exhibition. Drawing on the area's immense history, Terzini's latest residency is proud to take cues from its predecessors, searching for ways to give back to the community and foster the same edge that made these public bars so special. "This venue is an old deco pub with an incredible history as a pumping Eastern suburb venue," explains Terzini. "Residencies allow me the opportunity to explore less structured models … a bit like when I started my career more on gut feelings and creativity than budgets. I find this energy translates positively to my other projects, bringing a breath of fresh air." [caption id="attachment_681233" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The former Eastern Hotel, Katje Ford[/caption] [caption id="attachment_681232" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The former Eastern Hotel, Katje Ford[/caption] [caption id="attachment_681234" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The former Eastern Hotel, Katje Ford[/caption] Billy the Pig launches at 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction in February 2025. Top image: Nikki To.
Sure, it doesn't get that cold in Australia, but there are certainly times when a wearable heater wouldn't go astray. Anyone who's been to Hobart in July will surely attest to that. So our future shivering selves are pretty happy to hear about the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) latest development: a material that can store heat from the sun, and release it back to you on demand when you get chilly. That is, solar-powered heated clothes. The material MIT's researchers have developed is made from a polymer film, which they say soaks up energy from the sun and stores it in a chemical state. Storing it in this chemical state then lets the wearer reactivate it later and release it as heat. You'd be able to decide when to release it, and how much to release — all depending on how freezing it is, and how cosy you want to be. Researchers claim that, when activated, the material will be able to heat up by 15 degrees. Imagine the toastiness levels of a jacket that warm. We'd never get out of that thing. But it's not just clothing that this material could work for. As the polymer is a transparent film, it could be applied to heaps of different surfaces, including car windows. They could store the sun's heat during the day, and then use that heat to melt a layer of ice the next morning — or the next week. Looks like we're one step closer to finding our personal, portable heated nirvana. But don't throw away that Snuggie just yet — the material is still in development at MIT, so it might be a while until our thermostat jacket makes its way onto your body. Via Ecouterre. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
When New Year's Eve rolled around in 1999 with its blend of Y2K excitement and anxiety — including fears about how the world, or at least the technology relied upon to run it, might crash — Emily Browning wasn't yet a teenager. Thanks to the film The Echo of Thunder and TV series High Flyers, she was also already an actor, however. Over a quarter of a century later, the Australian Ghost Ship, Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Uninvited, Sucker Punch, Magic Magic, God Help the Girl, Legend, Golden Exits, The Affair and American Gods talent is back at the last evening of the 90s. In One More Shot, she can't escape it. The Aussie comedy, which premiered at SXSW in Austin before its local debut at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival, and will hit streaming later in the year via Stan, is a time-loop movie. Rather than Bill Murray waking up each morning to Sonny and Cher's 'I Got You Babe', Browning resets to the front door of a NYE shindig where the sounds of James' 'Laid' echo from the just-starting party inside. After a career so far that's taken her to Hollywood and back Down Under on multiple occasions, Browning is making her own return: to Australian film. The last time that she starred in a homegrown picture was in 2011's Sleeping Beauty. The only other local fare that she's had reach screens between then and now is 2023 Prime Video series Class of '07, which is set at a high-school reunion as an apocalyptic wave hits. The Fox with Jai Courtney (Dangerous Animals), Damon Herriman (Together) and Miranda Otto (The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim) is next, as written and directed by Danger 5's Dario Russo. Genre-wise, Browning is charting new territory in each of her three latest Aussie projects, too, embracing her comedy era. When you're leading a movie about reliving the same night over and over again — One More Shot's New Year's Eve cycle is sparked by a magical bottle of tequila — then you're leading a film about choices. Whenever the genre pops up, be it with Groundhog Day, Edge of Tomorrow, Happy Death Day and its sequel, Palm Springs, video-game adaptation Until Dawn or TV series Russian Doll, decisions and selecting the right options are always at their heart. That's a theme that aligns with Browning's approach to her career, especially in the two decades after playing A Series of Unfortunate Events' Violet Baudelaire opposite Jim Carrey (Sonic the Hedgehog 3) as Count Olaf. The film hit cinemas when she was just 16. That kind of fame wasn't her dream, even though she grew up with an avid love of movies. As Minnie Vernon, her One More Shot character, also does as she keeps retracing her steps as the new millennium dawns, Browning learned from it. Her Lemony Snicket experience has influenced how she has chosen projects since. "It's very much feelings-based, and also a desire to not repeat myself — not for the sake of optics or anything, but just because I get bored really easily. So really, I just go towards what interests me," she tells Concrete Playground. "Of course, there's about ten people in Hollywood who get their pick of any movie they want, and I'm certainly not one of them. And so a lot of it is also what's available to me at the time," Browning continues. "It's a combination of that and things that I love. But I've only done one or two things that I really didn't like and that I did because I needed to work. And I think I'm too — I just don't think I have the constitution for that. And so I really mostly just wait for something to come along that speaks to me in some way, and sometimes I wait for a really long time — sometimes I have huge breaks in work. I mean, I'm so incredibly lucky. There are so many talented actors out there who don't ever get the opportunities that I've been given, and so I feel like incredibly lucky for that, but I just follow my gut. I'm just going with what feels right to me." In One More Shot, Browning's Minnie is an anaesthetist who's having a chaotic day that she thinks rekindling her on-again-off-again romance with Joe (Sean Keenan, Exposure) will fix. More than that, she believes that plunging into a relationship with him now that he's back from New York will solve her general sensation that something's missing from her existence. Their loaded pal Rodney (Ashley Zukerman, In Vitro) and his wife Pia (Pallavi Sharda, Spit), who are parents to an infant and feeling the stress of the change to their lifestyle, are their hosts — but the night instantly alters for Minnie when she meets Joe's new girlfriend Jenny (Aisha Dee, Apple Cider Vinegar), then swerves again (and again and again and again) when taking a swig of tequila sees her kick off the party from the beginning once more. [caption id="attachment_1017510" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nick Robertson | @nickmickpics[/caption] When Class of '07 gave Browning her first taste of comedy as an actor, she was apprehensive. As the series proved, she needn't have been. Browning was also uncertain when One More Shot came her way — especially about playing drunk, one of acting's most-challenging tasks. Again, the same applies. A particular highlight of the Nicholas Clifford (Monologue)-directed, Alice Foulcher- and Gregory Erdstein (That's Not Me)-co-written film, which also features Hamish Michael (Scrublands: Silver), Anna McGahan (Darby and Joan) and Contessa Treffone (Totally Completely Fine) among its cast: Browning's ability, even though every protagonist in every flick hopefully changes and evolves, to convey that shift when those changes and evolutions are firmly in the spotlight — each step along the way, each tweak. How do you respond when a time-loop rom-com that sparks its temporal trickery with slinging shots hits your inbox? What's exciting about diving into comedy more than two decades into your career? Does a transformation arc change how you approach playing a character in a movie like this? In our chat, Browning also filled us in on all of the above, plus finding Minnie's mix of vulnerability and selfishness, acting tipsy, her journey since her first on-screen credit at the age of 11 and the thrill of making Australian projects. On How You React When a Time-Loop Comedy About a Magical Bottle of Tequila Comes Your Way "So every script you get sent, there's sort of a little blurb, like the kind of elevator pitch of the story that's trying to like sum it up in a paragraph or two. I guess that's for the actors who get sent so many scripts that they don't have time to read them all, but I'm just always happy to read a script. The blurbs are also never written by the creatives — they're written by someone at an agency somewhere. And so I read the blurb and I was like 'romantic comedy about a time travelling bottle of tequila?'. I was like 'aaah, I don't know about this. I'm not so sure'. But then I read the script, because I just like to read scripts, and I got not even probably 10–15 pages in and I was like 'oh, wait a sec'. I could just tell immediately that the quality of writing was really good. And I found it really funny. And then by the time I was through it, I was really nervous. I wasn't immediately sold, mostly because I didn't know if I could pull it off. When I first read it, I read it as though Minnie was getting progressively drunker through the whole film. And playing drunk is really, really, really hard to do, and so I was like 'oh, I don't know, this might be too much of a challenge'. But I really related to the themes of the choices that you make in life meaning that you have to say goodbye to other possible choices, and how do you decide what you want your life to look like — and the feeling of regret, and the kind of grass-is-always-greener feeling. And I really loved it. And then I when I spoke to Nick Clifford, the director, he just really further sold me on it. And yeah, I'm really excited about it. I feel really, really proud of it now." On Embracing Comedy After Initially Being Apprehensive Before Class of '07 Gave Browning Her First Comic Role "I love it. I love it so much. And I love it because it still feels really hard to me. I'm a person who gets bored really easily and I like to be challenged. I mean, I know that's a really trite thing to say. I know everyone says that. But without the fear of failing spectacularly, I feel like I don't have the — how do I explain this? I only really am able to be my best, most-creative self when I'm under a lot of stress and when I'm feeling really anxious. I guess it's maybe kind of an ADD thing where I just don't have enough dopamine in my brain unless I'm kind of borderline panicking. And so I think, yeah, comedy still feels really scary, and that's why I love to do it. And I really also, I really credit Class of '07 and Kacie Anning [Madam], the creator of that show, for opening that up in me — because she really put me through the wringer. We were playing improv games and doing a bunch of crazy stuff to prepare for that show. And she was pushing me. She was like 'you're still too afraid of being embarrassed. You still have to be more of a dickhead'. Like, 'you have to embarrass yourself more'. And it really broke something open in me, because I think before that I was really terrified of embarrassing myself, and I kind of wanted — I did a lot of straight drama, and I think I got to the limits of what I could do in my career without being willing to embarrass myself. And so now that's a fun and exciting risk for me — when I read a script where I'm like 'ohh, I'm going to look like a real idiot doing this', that's a pro now instead of a con." On Playing a Character Whose Change and Evolution Scene by Scene Isn't Just in the Spotlight — It's One of the Key Points of the Film "It was a challenge — there's so much repetition of setpieces and of moments, but ideally you don't want it to be repetition of the emotion or the acting, because then it becomes a really boring film. So that was a huge challenge, was like 'okay, how do I make sure every loop, the similarities between every loop' — like the literal similarities — 'feel different enough every time we're doing it?'. And I try not to think too much about how the audience is going to respond to a film. I don't really think that's my job when I'm filming it, when I'm acting. But I definitely wanted to make sure that Minnie, that there was some or a lot of variation between each time loop. But I think having such a clear transformation arc was really fun, actually. I love playing kind of an unlikeable character, and I just think it's more interesting and more fun. And I think Minnie, the fact that we get to watch Minnie over the course of the film go from unlikeable to a-little-bit-more likeable is really great. There's nothing more fun, honestly, than playing a character who has no self-awareness. There's something really freeing about it. As someone who's a total people-pleaser, there's something so enjoyable about playing a character who just doesn't give a shit about other people's feelings." On Finding Minnie's Balance of Yearning and Vulnerability, But Also Selfishness and Recklessness — and Plenty More "It's interesting. I think so much of that is a credit to the writing. I'm trying to get better in my work. I'm trying to get better at being proud of myself and owning the things that I'm good at — which I think growing up in Australia can sometimes be a tricky thing, when it's always like 'oh, don't get too full of yourself'. But I have always thought of myself or I've thought of actors as a medium in the way that paint is a medium. Like, I'm a paint colour and a director chooses to paint with me. And I know I've said this to a few actors and they're completely horrified by it, but an actor has very little control in the outcome of a film. And I think that this is why actors can become such nightmares sometimes, because they have this delusion of control and this need for control, where there really isn't any. It's really a job where you don't get much creative control. And so I think that I just am trying to tap into exactly what I imagine Minnie feels in the moment, and I get that from the script. I know that sounds like kind of a cheap answer. It makes it sound like I have no agency. But I'm a real overthinker in every other area of my life — but when it comes to work, if a character feels right and if a story feels right, something clicks for me where I'm really not thinking very much. I'm not a studious actor. I'm not poring over the script every day. My favourite thing is to get in there and talk about the scene with the director and with the other actors, and then just do it. And when I'm doing, I'm not thinking about it at all." On the Difficulties of Acting Drunk — But Only Really Needing to Act Tipsy Here "One of the ways that Nick Clifford reassured me about taking on the role was by telling me that she doesn't get progressively drunker. She actually resets for every loop. So really, Minnie is only ever tipsy, which is a lot easier — because I think that there's a broader area to play with with tipsiness. Some people, you can tell if they're tipsy — some people, you can't. Minnie is an anaesthetist. She's in a very serious profession. She probably went to a great school and her job means that she's taken very seriously. So I feel like Emily's normal personality-level silliness is probably Minnie's tipsiness. So I wasn't really thinking about playing tipsy. I was just thinking about playing Minnie being maybe slightly less reserved than she normally would be — or than she would be at work. The only moment in the film that I really felt that I was playing inebriated in some way was the scene with Sean in the bathroom, where Minnie does a line of C-Word's [Michael] cocaine. I've had conversations with a lot of people who were on cocaine, and I found that much easier than playing drunk — because essentially, a person on cocaine is just talking a bit faster and a bit more excitedly and animatedly, but really they just don't give a fuck what you have to say. They just want to hear the sound of themselves talking. And I was like 'yeah, I can do that.' That's a lot easier to act than drunk. Whereas drunk is like — when I see a great drunk performance, I'm really, really, really impressed by it. People think it's impressive when actors cry easily. I'm like 'no anyone can do that'. When someone can play drunk, that's when I'm really — I think that's really incredible. I don't know if I can really do it, to be honest with you." On Browning's Path From Making Her Screen Debut Almost Three Decades Ago in The Echo of Thunder Through to Now "That was my first acting role, and it kind of happened by accident. It was very random. A friend's parents saw me in a school play and knew a casting director, and the casting director was looking for an eight-year-old girl — and it kind of just happened. Before then, I loved movies so much. I loved movies. All I did was watch movies. But I just didn't think — I never made the connection in my mind that that was a job you could do. And then it just happened, and I was like 'cool, I guess this is my job now'. And it meant that I got to be out of school for a few months of the year, and it felt more interesting to me than school did. But I think from the beginning, I was like 'well, this is what I do now, I guess'. And then I remember doing Lemony Snicket when I was 14, and I loved that experience, but it was my first time in LA and it really freaked me out in a way that was like 'I actually don't think this is the life that I want'. I was there, I was in West Hollywood, and I was meeting all these young actors who seemed so — they just seemed to not have any other life outside of making films and it just all felt a bit yuck to me. And so I actually kind of quit for a few years, and didn't start again until after high school. But even that, it's only really in the last few years, since COVID, that I've really felt like I fully committed to wanting to be an actor — which is crazy because I'm in my mid-30s now. But it took me a long time. I was very afraid for a long time. The idea of being famous has always been terrifying to me. I'm only now at the point where I'm like 'okay, I think I know myself well enough and I can let myself accept the fact that I would like to be successful'. I still don't want to be famous. I still have no interest in being — like, I don't want to be in superhero movies, really. But I would like to do this for the rest of my life, and I would like to be able to do really interesting roles. And that means learning how to play the game to some degree, I guess, which feels gross, but I think it's just part of it. I've spent a lot of time leaning in and then pulling back, and hiding from the scarier elements of the industry — or the elements that were scary to me. And now I finally feel like I'm at a place where I'm like 'okay, I want to do this for real', even though I have been doing it for real for a long time. But I finally feel ready for it." On Coming Home for a Project — and One More Shot Being Browning's Australian Film Since 2011's Sleeping Beauty "Honestly, other than my gut, it's the fact that I get to come home. It's a huge drawcard to be able to work at home. And honestly, more and more recently, so much of the most interesting stuff that I've been reading has been Australian stuff. So it's been a really lucky thing — especially during the strike and everything, when a lot of my friends just had to wait it out. And the fact that I was still able to be reading stuff in Australia, I feel really, really lucky for that, that I have this other — it's not a second career, it's all part of the same career, but the fact that I can come home and work is really, really incredible, especially now considering that everything's a bit more global now. With streaming, people see things from all over the world and you can be anywhere. I'm not going to take a job in Australia just because it's in Australia, but if something is in Australia that I already love, it's going to make me even more excited about it. I think One More Shot — and The Fox as well — are both things that I'm incredibly excited about. And they both happen to have been made here, which is really cool. It makes them even more special." One More Shot screens at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival — and will stream via Stan later in 2025. MIFF 2025 runs from Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 17 and Friday, August 22–Sunday, August 24 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 31. For further details, visit the MIFF website. One More Shot images: Ben King/Stan.
Get a video game-to-television adaptation right and viewers will come flocking. It worked for The Last of Us in 2023. It's now proving the case for Fallout, too. In fact, Prime Video's initial take on the button-mashing favourite has become the streaming platform's most-watched season of TV since its The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power's first season, as well as one of its top three most-watched titles of all time so far. Accordingly, it's no surprise that Fallout has just been renewed for a second trip to the wasteland. Debuting its initial eight episodes on Thursday, April 11 Down Under, Fallout takes its cues from the games that first hit computers back in 1997, with three released sequels, a fourth on the way and seven spinoffs all following. The live-action television iteration stars Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets) as Lucy, a lifelong vault-dweller who leaves her cosy underground digs to navigate the irradiated wasteland that earth has remained for two centuries after the nuclear apocalypse. Crossing her path: bounty hunter The Ghoul (Walton Goggins, I'm a Virgo), who has ties to life before the devastation; and Maximus (Aaron Moten, Emancipation), an aspiring soldier with the Brotherhood of Steel, who don giant robotic suits. [caption id="attachment_950363" align="alignnone" width="1920"] JoJo Whilden/Prime Video ©Amazon Content Services LLC[/caption] In this nightmarish future, a hellscape filled with mutants, wild west vibes and plenty of violence awaits beyond the bunker that the optimistic Lucy, daughter of Hank (Kyle MacLachlan, Lucky Hank), who oversees Vault 33, has always called home. Bringing the chaos to life is a behind-the-scenes team featuring Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, as well as Geneva Robertson-Dworet (Captain Marvel) and Graham Wagner (Silicon Valley) as writers and co-showrunners. And yes, Bethesda Game Studios has a hand in it as well. There's no word as to when the retrofuturistic dystopian smash will return for season two, but its first season ended with plenty of questions and routes forward — aka, much for fans who've been hooked on the show, whether or nor you played the games first, to get excited about. "Jonah, Lisa, Geneva and Graham have captivated the world with this groundbreaking wild ride of a show. The bar was high for lovers of this iconic video game and so far we seem to have exceeded their expectations, while bringing in millions of new fans to the franchise. The cast led by Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten, Walton Goggins and Kyle MacLachlan have knocked it out of the park," said Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, announcing that Fallout will return. "We'd like to thank Jonah and Lisa, and our friends at Bethesda, for bringing the show to us, as well as Geneva and Graham for coming aboard as showrunners. We are thrilled to announce season two after only one week out and take viewers even farther into the surreal world of Fallout." [caption id="attachment_950393" align="alignnone" width="1920"] JoJo Whilden/Prime Video ©Amazon Content Services LLC[/caption] "Praise be to our insanely brilliant showrunners Geneva and Graham, to our kick-ass cast, to Todd and James and all the legends at Bethesda, and to Jen, Vernon and the amazing team at Amazon for their incredible support of this show. We can't wait to blow up the world all over again," said Nolan and Joy. "Holy shit. Thank you to Jonah, Kilter, Bethesda and Amazon for having the courage to make a show that gravely tackles all of society's most serious problems these days — cannibalism, incest, jello cake. More to come!" added Robertson-Dworet and Wagner. Check out the full trailer for Fallout below: Fallout streams via Prime Video. Season two doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced. Read our review of season one, and our interview with Walton Goggins, Ella Purnell and Aaron Moten. Images: courtesy of Prime Video.
At both the OG North Sydney outpost and the newly minted UrbnSurf venue, RAFI is laying on an extended happy hour from 3–6pm, Monday–Saturday. Prices are slashed on several of the restaurant and bar's most popular dishes, including sourdough pizzas for just $12, golden fried calamari for $13, and juicy cheeseburgers for $16. Punters can also enjoy discounted drops by the glass from Rafi's wine club selection, The Drop, for just $7, as well as Aperol and Fragola spritzes for $10 and classic margaritas for $14. Whether you're grabbing a bite after catching some waves in Homebush or you're relaxing on the al fresco terrace in North Sydney, this is a wallet-saving deal that's hard to beat. [caption id="attachment_965986" align="alignnone" width="1920"] RAFI UrbnSurf[/caption] Images: Steven Woodburn
We know what you're thinking. 'Low-carb' clothing? Are you serious? Nope nope nope. Call shenanigans, upturn tables, get on the tweets. Reformation's brand new ten-piece fashion line is indeed called the Low-Carb collection. But rather than being some form of low carbohydrate fashion (somehow), the eco-friendly fashion label has created ten items with a severely low carbon footprint. Yep, 'low carb'. We know, it's a straight-up, highly effective clickbaity fashion campaign. But one with a truly good heart. Created for yesterday's international Earth Day, Reformation's new collection intends to educate fashion lovers about the environmental impacts of their threads. Each Low-Carb item has an eco-gauge (or RefScale) that comes with it, allowing customers to read up on the garment's effect on the environment — we're talking manufacturing methods, impact on CO2 levels and water use for a start. The eco-gauge can be found next to each item on the Reformation website, so you can read up before you buy. In fact, Reformation makes clothes from just three different types of materials, new sustainable fabrics, repurposed vintage clothing and rescued deadstock fabric from fashion houses that over-ordered. Plus, the collection's pretty damn crisp. Sustainable fashion is becoming more and more en vogue, with Pharell launching his recent denim line for G-Star made from plastic bottles pulled from the ocean, to Melbourne's recently founded Hessian magazine, which focuses on eco-friendly fashion designers, collections and practices. Even if it's a little gimmicky, we're all for supporting sustainability-meets-fashion projects — depsite the clickbaity headlines. Via Who What Wear. Take five lessons in sustainable fashion with Hessian magazine over here.
If you've ever watched the films of Studio Ghibli and wished you could walk right into their gorgeous frames, you're not alone. In fact, you're only human. The beloved animation house already boasts one site that basically lets you do just that, thanks to its museum in Mitaka, a city on the western outskirts Tokyo — but, come 2022, it'll also unveil its very own theme park. The studio initially announced the news in 2017, with a plan to open in 2020. Then, in 2018, it pushed back its launch timeline to 2022. It's still aiming to open at least parts of the park next year, which should have you crossing your fingers that international travel starts returning to normal by then. Need more motivation? A few more details about the park have been revealed, and they're worth getting excited about. In big news for fans of Howl's Moving Castle, Ghibli's park will feature a life-sized replica of the titular structure. It'll reach about 16 metres in height, and you'll be able to step inside to check out Howl's bedroom. Hideaki Ōmura, the governor of Nagoya's Aichi Prefecture where the park will be located, tweeted a CGI concept image of the castle — and, while the structure is only depicted in white, it still looks as impressive as it sounds. It won't move, though, but the cannon on the front will. [caption id="attachment_799539" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Studio Ghibli[/caption] Also slated to feature in the park: nods to the cat from Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns, buildings with design elements that take their cues from Laputa: Castle in the Sky, and a super-sized garden that'll make you feel like you're one of the tiny characters in Arrietty. There'll also be a permanent exhibition room, a special exhibition room, a video exhibition room, a playground, and a shop and cafe, so you'll have plenty of places to explore, eat and browse. Yes, the Ghibli site will spirit visitors away to a whole realm dedicated to its considerable catalogue of movies — although it was initially described as a My Neighbour Totoro-focused park. Totoro-themed attractions are still part of the design, including a replica of Satsuki and Mei's house, which already exists at the 200-hectare Expo Park site. However, you'll also be able to check out the antique shop from Whisper of the Heart, Kiki's home from Kiki's Delivery Service and a village area that pays tribute to Princess Mononoke. The latter certainly looks the part, as Governor Ōmura also tweeted. [caption id="attachment_799541" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Studio Ghibli[/caption] Expect more nods to Ghibli's various features to follow, recreating other aspects from its three-decade-old body of work — and possibly its latest movie, Earwig and the Witch, too. If the end result is even half as wondrous as the studio's aforementioned museum, then fans are in for a treat. There, you can climb up to the building's rooftop garden to see one of the robots from Laputa: Castle in the Sky; watch exclusive shorts, including a sequel to My Neighbour Totoro; and touch a life-sized cat bus, which kids under 12 can climb and play on. Indeed, the museum is such a tourist attraction, you have to buy tickets over a month in advance — and experiencing the rush of folks in the merchandise-packed gift shop will make you feel like a susuwatari (Totoro's gorgeous little balls of floating soot). Incorporated into the existing parklands, the theme park will be heavy on greenery and the natural surroundings, which matches the environmental messaging that plays a prominent part in Ghibli's movies. The site will also encourage "enjoying walking", according to the draft concept outline, while aiming to offer "a one-of-a-kind park loved by more people". We don't think either will be difficult. The Studio Ghibli theme park is slated to start opening in 2022. For more information, keep an eye on the animation company's website.
BWS is hosting a day-to-night Mediterranean-inspired discoteca in Sydney this December to welcome the summer season. The second iteration of the BWS Cool Room series is taking place on Sunday, December 7, with a secret Sydney location that will be transformed into a sun-drenched day-to-night party paired with Aperol Spritzes and an abundance of summery beats, delicious food, and immersive experiences. Tickets are free; you just need to register before they get snapped up. In partnership with the spirit of Euro summer itself, Aperol, BWS Cool Room will host a stacked summery lineup curated by local tastemakers Astral People, featuring artists that specialise in club and disco-house music. UK-based brother duo Chaos In The CBD are headlining the party with their jazz-infused house music and warm disco tracks. Festival favourites, Wax'o Paradiso, are high up on the bill while fellow Melbourne artist Adriana is sharing her Mediterranean-inspired dance floor chaos. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adriana (@goodlucktoyourdad) Milanese DJ duo Eternal Love is also stopping by to share their soulful Italian sets, which have been heating up dancefloors across Europe this summer. There are several other acts on the lineup (with more to be announced), including the Italo alter ego of Sydney DJ Vibe Positive, Vibe Positano (Bobbe and Marco Vella), as well as local Sydney tastemaker and radio presenter, Bria. The event will also highlight several creative communities. Melbourne-based Skylab Radio will be on site to livestream all of the sets, Pizza Oltra will serve its famous slices, cult upcycling label Unwanted FC will be selling vintage European football jerseys, reworked football kits and accessories, as well as running live printing of sustainable merch. [caption id="attachment_1045286" align="alignleft" width="1920"] BWS Cool Room[/caption] Tickets are free but strictly limited, with the secret Sydney location dropping on the week of the event. Additionally, two lucky partygoers (based outside of Greater Sydney) can enter into a draw to win 2x VIP tickets to the party, including flights and accommodation. Sydney locals can also go in the running to score 2x VIP tickets plus one night of luxury accommodation. Keep your eyes on your inbox for the ticketing link on Thursday, November 27. Celebrate the spirit of music, movement and the Mediterranean mindset at Sydney's surprise day-to-night party. Register for your free tickets here. Image Credit: BWS Cool Room
You know when you're trying to read on a train but you just can't tune out that other passenger's borezo conversation? Or when you're at a festival and you want to turn up the base? It's these times that you wish you could just flick a switch in your ear and change the levels, but laugh the thought away because we're humans, not robots, and we don't have switches anyway. Well that may be true, but a Silicon Valley start-up have developed wireless earbuds which, when placed in your ear, can give you control over what you hear — and what you don't. It's called the Here Active Listening system, and it's basically a fancy add-on to your actual, working ear. The earbuds are controlled by a smartphone app and, once in your ear, can be used to modify the sounds around you. What does this mean? Well it would allow you to eliminate sounds (say, a crying baby), increase the bass and amplify sounds, such the voice of the person you're talking to — which would be great in loud environments, like gigs and festivals. This last point is probably why creators Doppler Labs have decided to release the product at Coachella this year. Here will be fully integrated into the festival, and will give punters the opportunity to access exclusive 'listening experiences' and audio filters. There will even be presets optimised for each stage. It will be the first opportunity for people to purchase the earbuds since the project raised over $600,000 on Kickstarter last year. There's no set date on when the rest of the us not attending Coachella can try them out, but the price point is set to be around $200-300. Via Mashable.
Hey, remember Pokémon Go? That insanely popular augmented reality mobile game that seemingly everyone was playing until suddenly they weren't? Well, it turns out the developers behind said game are branching out into another beloved fictional universe: the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Niantic, which developed Pokémon Go as well as Ingress, will team up with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on Harry Potter: Wizards Unite. According to a Niantic announcement, "players will learn spells, explore their real world neighbourhoods and cities to discover and fight legendary beasts and team up with others to take down powerful enemies." It also said the game "will leverage the full stack of the Niantic Platform while also providing an opportunity to pioneer all new technology and gameplay mechanics." That's about all we know for now – although it does sound as though players may encounter a few familiar faces, with the game's website promising appearances by "iconic characters". Please let it be Dobby (#neverforget). If you're interested, you can sign up for more information about the game via www.harrypotterwizardsunite.com.
This burger-centred eatery in Redfern boasts a one-of-a-kind concept that injects a dose of fun into Sydney's familiar surroundings. Upon venturing to Suburgia, you'll find that the menu spans from the Eastern suburbs all the way through to the heart of the West — and you're guaranteed to spot a familiar name. The self-proclaimed "best burger spot in the 'burbs" is home to a huge menu of inventive dishes. Peruse the selection and you'll spot a stacked beef burger with bacon jam assigned to Ashfield; a beetroot and truffle mayo burg for Marrickville; a sweet and spicy chicken burger with gochujang mayo, barbecue sauce, pineapple and bacon in honour of Redfern; and plant-based varieties representing Ingleburn, Petersham, Ultimo and Edgecliff, to name a few. Surburgia's menu doesn't end there — this Chalmers Street locale has the whole shebang. You'll also be met with desserts like apple berry bombs, slices of mud cake and sticky date pudding, alongside a hefty selection of toppings for loaded fries. Plus, there is also a rotating menu of monthly specials that you can pick from. Previous instalments have included the likes of a Turkish-inspired Iskender Surprise, which combined sujuk, za'atar, labne and a tomato relish; the schnitzel-starring BIG Caesar with onion rings, anchovies, bacon and garlic butter; and a seafood-focused riff on a loaded hot dog that paired pepper squid, prawn takoyaki and fish with a chilli seafood salad, miso and yuzu mayo.
For fans of George Lucas' sci-fi phenomenon, it's easy to feel the force. More than four decades after Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope first hit cinemas, the space opera has spawned sequels, prequels, spin-off movies and TV series, all manner of celebratory events, and a near-unparalleled type of pop culture frenzy. Now, that humble 1977 movie has also given rise to a dedicated theme park zone, called Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. It's the next best thing to punching it into hyperdrive and zooming to a galaxy far, far away (and, also, it's something that flesh-and-blood folks who aren't fictional characters can actually do). Obviously, the force is particularly strong with this idea. Yes, we've definitely got a good feeling about it as well. First announced back in 2015, Disneyland Resort in California is now welcoming patrons into its 14-acre Galaxy's Edge after a star-studded launch this week — while Walt Disney World in Florida start doing the same at its own similar spot at the end of August. This concept has clearly been in Disney's sights ever since it bought Lucas' company, Lucasfilm, for more than $4 billion back in 2012. Now that it has come to fruition, a world of fun awaits wannabe jedis, rebels and siths (because we all have a dark side). [caption id="attachment_724265" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Joshua Sudock/Disney Parks[/caption] Galaxy's Edge is set on the outpost of Batuu, in village of Black Spire Outpost. It's a hive for smugglers and rogues (naturally), and it's where you'll be wandering around when you're not jumping into the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy and trying to become best buddies with a loveable wookiee. With Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ranking among the site's top highlights, you really do just that, aka sit in the driver's seat of Han Solo's beloved ship. It's not open yet, but later this year you'll also be able to take part in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, where you'll get caught in the middle of a battle between the Resistance and the First Order. [caption id="attachment_724272" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kent Phillips/Disney Parks[/caption] The theme park zone's other huge standout is boozy watering hole Oga's Cantina, which brings alcohol to the California spot for the first time. Here, the drinks come with names such as Carbon Freeze, Oga's Obsession and Cliff Dweller, and are served in unique vessels while you sit at the counter or get cosy in a booth. And because every good cantina has its own vibe, this one gets some help from DJ R-3X, the former droid pilot from Star Tours. Relax, sip and try not to shoot first. [caption id="attachment_724271" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] David Roark/Disney Parks[/caption] Elsewhere, if you're a hands-on type, you can construct your own R2-D2 or BB-8-style droids, which you can then take home with you. Or, build your own unique lightsaber, then take a few Jedi lessons so you know how to use it. You can also pick up Resistance or First Order supplies, look for rare goods at Dok-Ondar's Den of Antiquities and find a new friend at the Creature Stall (if you haven't noticed, plenty of these attractions involve purchasing some merchandise or a keepsake, because of course they do). And if all of this shopping is making you thirsty, the Milk Stand serves up exactly what everyone wants: blue — and green — milk. When you're not giving your Star Wars skills and your wallet a workout, you can enjoy the finest food that Black Spire Outpost has to offer. Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo takes the form of a multi-purpose transport shuttle docked in a hangar, and is basically an intergalactic food truck, with 'Smoked Kaadu Ribs' (aka pork ribs) and 'Ithorian Garden Loaf' (aka a plant-based meatloaf alternative) on the menu. At Ronto Roasters, spit meats are cooked up on a recycled podracing engine, while Kat Saka's Kettle sells street food snacks. [caption id="attachment_724274" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Richard Harbaugh/Disney Parks[/caption] Expect to spy an array of beloved characters roaming around as well — there's certainly room for it, with Galaxy's Edge marking the biggest single-themed expansion to both parks. The guiding concept is to "transport guests to a never-before-seen planet, a remote trading port and one of the last stops before wild space where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life." And, to give this interactive experience the requisite soundtrack, it'll features new Star Wars music by the man behind its iconic score, aka Oscar-winning composer John Williams. If you're going to be on the US West Coast between now and June 23, tickets have already been snapped up; however once the booked-out opening period ends, you'll be able to head to Disneyland's Galaxy's Edge as part of your regular entry. Eventually, visitors in Florida will also be able to spend a night or several in an immersive Star Wars-themed hotel as well, although construction hasn't started yet and an opening date hasn't been announced either. That said, Disney recently revealed that a visit to the hotel will involve boarding a launch pod and taking part in "a fully-immersive, multi-day Star Wars adventure aboard a luxury starship", with high-end dining and cabins that apparently have a space view all part of your stay. For more information about Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland, and to book park tickets, visit the park's website. Via Disney Theme Parks Blog. Images: Disney Theme Parks Blog.
The Crows Nest sister of the CBD's longrunning Small Bar is as warm and cosy as you would expect. And this is despite it actually being quite a decent size contrary to what its name may suggest — although that may be more a sign of how Sydney's small bar scene has evolved in the past five years. In a sea of family-friendly restaurants and pubs, Small Bar is a great option for an after-work tipple, first date or catch-up with mates a little closer to home for north shore residents. Venture beyond the exposed brick bar and mood lighting indoors to find a greenery-filled, covered courtyard. The bar offers a decent wine selection, around five labels in each grape variety, at pretty reasonable prices — most hover around the $8 mark for a glass and nothing creeps over $16. For food, you can enjoy loaded fries and selection of small plates — think grilled halloumi, vegan cauliflower wings, sliders or tacos. Images: Trent Van der jagt.
Supermarkets sell them. Almost every bakery does, too. But there's a difference between most croissants and Lune's croissants. The latter have been described as "the finest you will find anywhere in the world" by The New York Times, are made and baked inside a climate-controlled glass cube, and are the result of a time-consuming process overseen by the Melbourne-born croissant haven's founder Kate Reid, an ex-Formula 1 aerodynamicist who brings scientific precision to her craft. For a full decade now, Lune Croissanterie has been earning praise and fans — and sparking hefty lines — for its signature item. The many different playful variations it offers up each month, such as finger bun croissants, birthday cake croissants and lamington cruffins, have scored the same adoration. But from Wednesday, November 2, those baked goods aren't just available at Lune's multiple Melbourne and Brisbane outposts (with a debut Sydney store slated to open in 2023). Now, thanks to the brand's first-ever cookbook, you can also whip them up at home. Clear your kitchen bench, switch on the oven, and stock up on flour and butter — in a variety forms — plus eggs and milk: you have some baking to do. Penned by Reid, LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night's title says everything it needs to, and fills 272 pages with all your new favourite snacks. Unsurprisingly, the tome is thorough, stepping through how to make the perfect dough, the layers and lamination process, and getting the right shapes, including for danishes and pain au chocolat. From there, the range of recipes includes croissants, obviously, but also a hefty lineup of other edible delights. Think: lemon curd cruffins, pecan sticky buns, reuben croissants, croissant 'bread and butter' pudding, chocolate-dipped croissant 'biscotti' and croissant croutons, for starters. Other highlights span ham and gruyère croissants, cheese and vegemite escargots, chocolate plum sake danishes, pepperoni pizza escargots, those aforementioned lamington cruffins, four-cheese tousades, fish pies, pulled-pork croissants and lobster rolls. Amid all of the above, and more, the book is filled with food porn-style shots of plenty of dishes, images of Lune's stores and tidbits of history from the company's decade of operations so far — since setting up shop back in 2012 as a pint-sized store in Elwood. Your new problems: picking which of Lune's treats to make yourself, and somehow not devoting every waking hour to cooking your way through the new tome. If you want to set yourself a Julie & Julia-style challenge to work through them all, however, we're sure that your tastebuds will approve. LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night also covers what to do with leftovers, stale croissants and how to freeze your dough and pastries — and all of the classic recipes, of course. Happy baking — and yes, if one of your nearest and dearest loves making pastries, you might've just found their Christmas present. LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night hits Australian bookstores on Wednesday, November 2, with the hardback edition retailing for $55.
Located on Victoria Street, the once-renowned Emerald City Motors has been transformed into a lavish venue by owners Brandon Martignago and Joshua Pullen of Harbour City Hospitality. More than just a restaurant or bar, The Emerald Room promises a fusion of cabaret, live music, burlesque, and acrobatic arts alongside a paired dining experience from industry heavyweights. The late-night menu which features easy delicious eats like lobster rolls, oysters and strawberry jam doughnuts has been crafted by chefs Nina 'Teddie' Huynh (formerly of two-hatted diners like Monopole, Cirrus and Bentley Restaurant and Bar) and Elijah Attard (ex Caveau and Yellow), with a cocktail program created by Dulcie's Kings Cross alumni, Nick Chapman. The establishment is a haven for those seeking choice eats and a martini close to midnight while enjoying live performances curated by cabaret star Brendan de la Hay. The Emerald Room draws inspiration from iconic cabaret venues worldwide, like legendary showrooms Cafe de Paris in London and the Rainbow Room in New York. There are numerous experience packages punters can choose from for an extra night in. There's the classic Cabaret package that includes a three-course dinner with a show; the VIP Booth package for up to six and a bottle of Moet and Chandon champagne; the Ringside package for (you guessed it) ringside seats literally built into the side of the stage so you won't miss a minute of the action and a bottle of champagne and oysters for your troubles; The Lounge package offers a more intimate evening for two with a bottle of champagne; and the High Tables is a more casual offering. The Emerald Room is available for bookings and walk-ins from 6pm until midnight from Wednesday to Saturday, with late-night dining available from 9.30pm to midnight.
Everybody likes putting things on walls. Particularly pretty things, and particularly well-designed things. Better still, the people at Ferm Living are now making removable vinyl wall stickers designed to adorn your home, which are also functional and educational. The products are designed in Denmark and made in Europe, so they have that lovely Nordic well-designed glow. The stickers can be either decorative or functional. If it's winter and the birds have stopped singing, put a flock up by the window to remind you spring is coming, or if you're longing for the forest, put up some tree trunks. The calendars come with their own sets of post-it notes and chalk, so you can wipe them down and begin again fresh next month, the to-do lists make the task of being organised neater and easier to access, and the period tables can provide your bedroom with that chemistry lab atmosphere it's been so sadly lacking. And while their map probably won't help you find Azerbaijan or help you figure out how many countries the Danube runs through, at least it provides a reference point for discussing current affairs when you bring home someone lovely of an evening. https://youtube.com/watch?v=zWoDOUE2X58 [Via Cool Hunting]
Now that temperatures are rising, the beach is one of the only places to get a little respite, especially if your pad's air-con is lacking or nonexistent. Yet one problem that beachgoers encounter again and again is how to get their hands on a cold drink without having to say goodbye to their prime position on the shoreline. For one day only, Aussie cooler and drinksware brand Kodiak has come up with a nifty solution — the Great Aussie Kodiak Drop Bear. Taking to the skies above Coogee Beach's Dunningham Reserve from 12–1pm on Saturday, January 31, beachgoers will encounter ice-cold drinks descending on a beachfront drop zone. While not quite the same as Australia's favourite mythical creature that we love to confuse tourists with, Kodiak's drop bear appears in the form of a drone, supplying free Red Bull, Heaps Normal and Posca Sparkling Prebiotic Soda to thirsty attendees. Plus, those who register for a delivery will also receive a complimentary Kodiak Tumbler valued at $39.95. "When introducing Kodiak to Aussies this summer, we wanted to do something memorable, but also practical, just like our brand," says Kodiak founder David Yates. "Our products are extremely high quality and use extensive tech features to ensure they keep drinks icy no matter how hot it gets — and this weekend is the perfect way to prove it."
Steamy, sunny days are still upon us, making afternoons around the pool an enduringly high priority — and a surefire reason to leave the office inappropriately early. While swimming a few laps satisfies the large majority of water babies, there are those of us yearning for the playful days of yesteryear; when fighting your siblings on the back of inflatable dragons was the ultimate, when diving for sunken rings was the best of times, when blow-up alligator time had to be shared out and rostered by your tired-but-practical Aunty Jane. But pool toy companies haven't forgotten you. There's a huge market for pool toys to suit all ages, with plenty of stylish, weird and genius inflatable ideas on offer. From floating poker and ping pong tables to giant floating birds and watermelons, these are our favourite inflatables to make any pool party that little more Instagrammable — and your summer that extra bit more nostalgic. THE GIANT FLAMINGO/SWAN One of the most Instagrammable pool accessories around: the giant swan (or pink flamingo, if you're feeling more flamboyant). According to the Giant Swan website, the swans are "popular in fashion shoots", so for $99 you can nab your very own oversized aquabird and get yourself a perpetually summery profile picture. POOL SHOOTBALL If you like shooting hoops but find the asphalt a little too steamy in summer, this genius little game brings the court to the water. For just $40 with free shipping, this one's perfect for pool parties or sorting out sibling rivalries. AQUA ZORBS With the increasing popularity of Zorb Bumper Soccer and Human Zorb Bowling, Aqua Zorb water walkers could be of the most epic additions to home pool toy collection. One of the more exxy pool toys on the market, the Zorbs are $595 each — and obviously you're going to need two for battle reasons. One for the truly dedicated pool fiends. FLOATING POKER TABLE Now here's a truly grown-up pool toy. Bestway are responsible for the world's first pool poker set, complete with inflatable poker table, chairs, cards, chips and most importantly, drink holders. It's just $39.95 for the set, however a day of poker in the pool may end up costing you more. THE LAKE TRAMPOLINE You're going to need a bigger pool for this one, preferably lake-sized. Remember all those hours you spent as a youngster doing precarious trick jumps from your trampoline into your pool? Now your adult self can get some solid (and somewhat safer) air jumping off a giant lake trampoline, priced from a rather steep $1800 to $3700. With a price tag like that, might be worth getting your crew to chip in. MOTORISED BUMPER BOATS Yep, motorised bumper boats. Longtime aquatic toymakers Hammacher Schlemmer have created these floating vehicles for long afternoons spent crashing into your loved ones at four kilometres per hour. For $100 each, these bumper boats can also be used to ferry your summer snacks from one end of the pool to the other, or could be used as a flimsy excuse for a jetski in a lake situation. FLOATING POOL PING PONG Never chase ping pong balls around your garage again. Yours for around $60-90, depending where you buy it, this floating ping pong table is as summery an activity you can get. You're going to want to take this to the shallow end though; treading water and playing ping pong sounds like one hell of an exercise. AQUAGLIDE REVOLUTION If you're looking to make other people jealous (or highly confused) of your toys, this'll do the trick. Priced at $4500, the six-foot-high Aquaglide Revolution has it all: slides on one side, some form of extreme seesaw on the other, climbing walls aplenty. The Revolution allows up to ten people on board at once, and will have you outrageously exhausted and immeasurably happy by the end of the day. URBAN OUTFITTERS POOL FLOATS Another much more realistic and adorable option to brighten up any pool party. From watermelons, Monaco bars, snakes, suns, smiley faces to floating beer pong, American retail giants Urban Outfitters have a variety of novelty pool inflatables on offer for just $25 to $50 each. By Tommy Codling and Shannon Connellan.
UPDATE: June 18, 2020: Spider-Man: Far From Home is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Here's the great thing about the recent batch of Spider-Man movies: they are, like their protagonist, smaller, friendlier and far more humble than their superhero contemporaries. Crucially, they're about a teenage boy firs, and superhero stuff second, which not only keeps them grounded in about as much reality as films of this genre can hope for, but also provides for an endless source of conflict as the two themes inevitably clash. The extreme version of that incompatibility was explored in the original (Tobey McGuire) franchise, with Spidey declaring he was "Spider Man no more". Far From Home takes one step back from that level of angst, compelling Tom Holland's character not to retire the suit but leave it hanging in the closest while he goes on a European field trip with his classmates. Fair enough, too, since he and the other Avengers did just save the universe from annihilation. Who are we to begrudge him a little down time? Of course, the aftermath of the recent Avengers films (especially the 'snap') lingers long in the memories of everyone on earth, both for those who never left, and those who became dust and then returned. That divide is given a neat comedic angle in Far From Home, too, by virtue of some of Peter Parker's classmates now being five years older and more mature — which proves especially problematic in the case of Australian actor Remy Hii who emerges as a handsome rival for Peter's romantic crush, MJ (Zendaya). For Peter, though, the impact of the Endgame conflict vests squarely in the loss of his friend, mentor and father-figure, Tony Stark. To make matters worse, not only does he have to grapple with that loss in virtual secret solitude, he's also constantly being asked whether he is to be Tony's heir-apparent in replacing Iron Man as the lead Avenger. A Venetian/Parisian holiday alongside MJ and his best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) looks to be the perfect way to leave all these worries behind for a while. That is until world-destroying monsters rear their giant heads and imperil his friends and strangers alike. This time, however, Spidey isn't alone. A mysterious new hero with remarkable powers emerges in the form of Mysterio, played by a terrific Jake Gyllenhaal. Mysterio and Peter seem like kindred spirits, blessed as they are with extreme intelligence, reluctant heroism and sensitive souls. As with the previous Spidey movies, and indeed the MCU at large, it's these intimate, quiet connections that continue to drive this universe forward far more so than the bombast of the battles and special effects wizardry. Which isn't to say there aren't still some phenomenal effects in Far From Home, including an intensely trippy, mind-bending sequence that comfortably rivals its equivalent in Dr Strange. Holland remains the perfect casting for Peter Parker: baby-faced and eminently likable, he absolutely captures the sweaty awkwardness of a teenage crush absent the confidence to actually act upon it. Zendaya, too, gets much more screen time in Far From Home, and immediately proves she's worthy of it with a witty, nuanced and really quite tender performance. Some old hands also return to bolster the supporting cast list, including Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), Aunt May (Marisa Tomei) and the man who started this whole thing off back with the original Iron Man, Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau). Their presence, along with the constant allusions to Tony Stark, remind us that this is still an MCU movie, but never so much that it loses its distinct and unique feel. Its "Spidey sense", if you will. Overall, Far From Home isn't quite as polished as Homecoming, nor as resonant as Endgame. But it makes up for it in humour and heart, serving as both a fitting end to Marvel's Phase 3 and a launch pad for the new era to come. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt9L1jCKGnE
Who knew ballet and rock music make such a beautiful team? The newest production from the Australian Ballet, Chroma, features four contemporary works and proves that ballet is not just classical orchestration and frou-frou. The White Stripes combine with contemporary costume and minimalist set design to make this not your mum’s ballet. The quadruple bill takes its title from one of the works within, Chroma, a legendary piece originally created by Wayne McGregor for The Royal Ballet of London and using the aforementioned music from the Whites. McGregor’s ballet differentiates itself from the classical style, with jerky movements meant to push the limits of the dancers’ bodies. “The movement can be freaky at times and shows off every joint our bodies have, sometimes all at once," says Daniel Gaudiello, the male lead in Chroma. "The body is such an amazing instrument and you witness it at its limits." Also slated for performance are twin pieces choreographed by Jirí Kylián, Petite Mort (also featuring Gaudiello) and Sechs Tanze, as well as a new original work, Art to Sky, by the Australian Ballet's resident choreographer Stephen Baynes. The contemporary dances by Kylián and Baynes are paired with the classical music of Mozart and Tchaikovsky, creating a blend of old and new ballet styles. Both Chroma and Kylián's works will feature dancers in all white or neutral costumes, highlighting the motions of the dancers. “We are in these little camisole-like chiffon outfits that are designed to complement our skin tones," says Gaudiello. "The result I think is an inside-out view of ballet through an androgynous lens.” The intensity of ballet, particularly when paired with the music of The White Stripes, shows off the pure athleticism of the dancers. “I feel Australia is such an athletic country and so is the ballet," says Gaudiello. "We all feel so lucky to have the chance to try such a coveted work and I really believe we will strive in every show to put in the raw intention, attack and groove that such a difficult piece like Chroma demands." As for the stories the choreography conveys, Gaudiello tries not to sway us. “That is the beauty of contemporary ballet, sometimes the ending is up to you,” he says. Chroma is on at the Sydney Opera House from May 2-17. Tickets can be purchased through the Sydney Opera House website.
True-crime documentaries aren't just having a moment. They've been monopolising everyone's viewing lists for the past decade, and making us all fans of the gripping genre in the process. The secret (well, other than the thousands of secrets each true-crime doco is brimming with)? The breadth of topics, because this field can cover everything from fast food scams and unsettling cults to personal quests to catch an elusive serial killer. No matter the subject matter, scenario, illicit acts or people responsible, great true-crime documentaries all have two other things in common: they're impossible to stop watching once you've started, and they'll make you want to seek out more once your series of choice has come to an end. Of course, there are so many to choose from, so we've teamed up with streaming service Binge to pick five standouts that you can feast your eyes on right now — including via a 14-day free trial for new customers.
The 2020s are an age of many things, but an underrated symbol of this decade is the age of convenience. Not only can our phones keep us entertained but they can also keep our pantries stocked and bellies full. Apps like DoorDash put even more convenience in our hands — and not just by being able to order from the local Dominos without having to interact with another human being. Depending on your nearby providers, you can order almost any essential item straight to your door, so below we've highlighted some of the lesser-known items you might one day need delivered. With bonuses for new users, plus a daily specials series (running until Saturday, March 23) for beloved vendors — think $5 burritos and buy-one-get-one subs. There's no reason not to give DoorDash a whirl. [caption id="attachment_943284" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Sarinya Pinngam via iStock[/caption] Fresh fruit and veggies We all dread forgetting the groceries, leaving it to the last minute when it's easier to hang on the couch binging a sitcom. Gone are the days of being forced to wear outside clothes and head to the shops. Nowadays, if you live within range of a participating grocer, you can simply press a few buttons, and a dasher will drop everything you need for a fruit bowl or salad right outside. Best for: fixing a healthy feed at the last minute. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943285" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Dennis Van Hoef via iStock[/caption] Meat and poultry Picture this: Friday night, you've had a long day at work rushing to hit a few end-of-week deadlines, friends are coming over for dinner, and you've got a barbecue for the ages planned. The grill's preheated and it's time to grab a steak and some chicken drumsticks out of the fridge — but they're two days past their best and smell like a bin. Fret not. The supermarket rule applies here too. Pick a replacement cut from a grocer; if it's available, a dasher can drop it at your door. Best for: replacing off meat when you've got a horde of carnivores coming over. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943280" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jacob Lund via iStock[/caption] Beer, wine and spirits If there's a house party, dinner party or grownup birthday party coming up and your bar cart's looking a little empty, sure enough, DoorDash can come to the rescue if you have participating merchants nearby. With deliveries available from BWS, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars, Porter's Liquor and a range of independent bottle shops, you needn't worry about running out for drinks. From a ritzy champagne to a cold four-pack of premixed cocktails, the dashers will get your drinks to your door. Note: you will need to show ID upon receipt of the liquid goods. Best for: a last-minute addition for a party when you realise you've inadvertently emptied the home bar. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943286" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Vladans via iStock[/caption] Over-the-counter medicine If you're sick as a dog, feeling wiped out and legitimately cannot (and should not) leave the house, you can wait for your roommate or S/O to get a minute to get something for you and suffer a while longer, or open DoorDash. You'll find actual pharmacies here, and while they can't fill a prescription, they can send your choice of over-the-counter meds on their way to help beat any bug. Best for: when you're fighting a bug with no strength to leave home. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943281" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Dmytro Skrypnykov via iStock[/caption] Batteries and chargers You may take your phone with you everywhere you go, but do you bring a charger? You don't want to be caught amiss if your battery runs flat. Similarly, finding out you're out of actual batteries tends to happen when you need one most. Don't panic because if you've still got even 1% left on your charge, open up DoorDash and summon a fresh pack of power on its way to you ASAP, whether it's a wall plug or a AAA, you'll find one here. Best for: replacing the charger you forgot to pack. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943287" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Hung Chung Chih via iStock[/caption] Toiletries and hygiene products Running out of essential bathroom or hygiene items can be a disaster, especially in critical moments. Say you're in need of a fresh can of deodorant for a date; you're glued to the loo but didn't realise you were down to the scraps of your TP supply. Nightmare. With the participating grocers on DoorDash, everything from Lynx Africa bodywash to menstruation products are just a press of a button away. Best for: an emergency refill of the bathroom cabinet. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943283" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Frantic00 via iStock[/caption] Fresh flowers Nothing can heal the wounds of a bad day like a bit of romance at home. Say you want to surprise a special someone or simply pep up your home decor if it feels a bit short on colour and life, flowers can help you out. If there's a participating florist within range, a dasher can collect a fine bouquet and ferry it to your door in a flash. Particularly useful if you've forgotten a key birthday or anniversary and need an emergency surprise. Best for: a romantic surprise that won't require a drive. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943294" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Drazenzigic via iStock[/caption] Desserts and confectionary Anyone can tell you that a little sweet treat to break up the working day is essential. Feeling overwhelmed from a big day of studying? Little treat. Back-to-back deadlines at work? A little treat will help. If you're within range of a bakery, convenience store, or anywhere with a dessert menu, the power of a little treat is within your grasp on DoorDash. Best for: curing a mid-afternoon slump. DoorDash it now [caption id="attachment_943282" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Liudmila Chernetska via iStock[/caption] Hot (or iced) coffee and tea A tea or coffee can really work wonders to fix a bad day or poor mood. It's science! If you fancy a cuppa tea order some of your favourite blends from a nearby grocer, or get a fresh round of espresso coffee delivered from a nearby cafe with DoorDash. Best for: an emergency pick me up at work or home when you're too busy to self-brew. DoorDash it now Delivery gifting It's easy to order anything for yourself, follow your wants and needs, and order from local businesses accordingly. However, you might not have considered the possibility of ordering something for someone else. DoorDash offers a gifting service on the app. You just put in the recipient's address and tick the gifting option at the bottom, fill in an order, and then add a personalised message. Add the recipient's phone number to the order and send them the gift link to tell them it's coming. Easy. Best for: an easy gift for a special someone. DoorDash it now Download the DoorDash app for free on the Apple Store or Google Play to find out what's nearby. For more information, visit the website.
"Sitting on a bench in Wicks Park in Marrickville, reading a field report by The Lifted Brow's Sam Cooney, I madly looked around for a caramel door described in the text. There it was! As if the writer had put the doorway there himself! Of course, I knew he hadn't, but it was perfect — the exact kind of dark magic that all good writers and artists and musicians perform when their work seems to lift up walls behind walls behind walls and reveal something new and unexpected with great clarity. This is what digital literature can do and be! It's a revelation — experiential and immersive and immediate." This eerie literary experience, as described by Concrete Playground writer Lauren Carroll Harris, was made possible through the award-winning digital project The Silent History. A science-fiction novel that takes the form of an app, The Silent History tells the tale of a dystopian future where a mysterious epidemic has robbed children of the ability to develop language. From 2011 to 2043, readers watch on as these mute children — dubbed 'silents' — tear families apart, unnerve entire government sectors and generally freak people out. Part sci-fi thriller, part-real-life scavenger hunt, the app has been called "entirely revolutionary" by Wired magazine, while the LA Times declared it "a landmark project that illuminates a possible future for e-book novels." We spoke to its creator, ex-McSweeney's managing editor and publisher Eli Horowitz, in Australia for the Sydney Writers' Festival, about what it means to read an app and what writers are doing differently to entertain a digital audience. The Writer as a Prime Mover "The first thing I wanted was it to be a story that you could explore," says Horowitz, "because I have this thing, which I bet that a lot of people have, when you read a book you love or see a movie you love or whatever, you almost then want to keep on existing in that world. You want to see what's just off the page or off the screen, and keep on exploring and living in it." The tablet platform, with its promise of interactivity and updatability, was a natural fit. An app like The Silent History combines the familiar pleasures of a page-turning narrative with the gaming world's mechanics of exploration and investigation. "Once I had that then the plot needed to be kind of global and sprawling, the kind of essential premise that could play itself out a lot of different ways, so that's why it became kind of like a medical story, an epidemic story almost, that lends itself well to that." But that's just the beginning. Around this main story arc float hundreds of 'field reports', site-specific side narratives that readers can only access when they travel to the physical location where the report is set. These reports can be written by anyone, anywhere — in fact, there are already a bunch tucked away around Australia. And if you're feeling inspired, you are free to pen your own and submit it for approval from The Silent History's US editing team. The Writer as a team player Horowitz, begotten of a librarian and originally a carpenter ("not a very good one"), claims that the whole process featured very little in the way of creative genius and a whole lot of good ol' problem solving. He admits that the communal approach of the project — which is what has brought The Silent History so much attention — wasn't even originally part of the blueprint. "The collaborative aspect was not so much any kind of ideological belief about crowd-sourcing or wikis or whatever but more that I wanted these things to be all over the place and I couldn't put them all over the place," he explains, "The more people we had [writing] the more of a geographic spread we could have." It sounds simple enough. But creative genius or problem solver, Horowitz has been hailed as a literary revolutionary. He and his team, Ying, Horowitz & Quinn LLC, are considered trailblazers in e-storytelling, crafting a digital experience unlike any other. While e-books have been popping up on the App Store since the release of the iPad in 2010, none has received this level of fanfare. The Writer as a Coder "A lot of times [with] these projects, the downfall is that they're essentially a technology project and they find some writing to cram into it or it's essentially a literary project and then at the end they add the technological aspect and it's still kind of unsatisfied or clunky or buggy," says Horowitz, "so having it all work together was really important." For all the praise coming his way, though, the San Franciscan remains humble. During his eight years at Californian publishing house McSweeney's, he operated under the mantra that anything he printed had to "earn the page it's on". He says that he brought this same approach over to the app world, trying to create something that "earns the screen it's on". "I approach this in very much the same way that I would approach a book with McSweeney's or whatever else," he says. "Just to think about how form and content both can affect each other, and to think about the total experience of the project. I don't see this as a move away from print or anything, I see this as just another tool in our toolbox." Eli Horowitz will be appearing at the The Sydney Writer's Festival from May 24 to 26 at the events Reading in the E-Future, Festival Club Friday, The Silent History and Tales From the Editorial Front Line. He'll also pop into the Sydney Apple Store on May 28 as part of Vivid Sydney.
