There's more to stunning Jervis Bay than just sunbathing and swimming. In fact, one of the best ways to explore this stretch of coastline is by going for a stroll. We're not saying work up a serious sweat (unless you want to), but you can catch some pretty amazing views on foot. For a gentle stroll, take the White Sands Walk and Scribbly Gum Track. The leisurely 2.5-kilometre loop takes you past the white sands of Hyams, Greenfields and Seamans, as well as through the coastal forest by the shores of Jervis Bay. You can cool off with a swim along the way, plus spot birds and dolphins. The walk takes between 30–90 minutes. Make sure you check the National Parks website for any alerts before you venture out. [caption id="attachment_770531" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hyams Beach by Tourism Australia[/caption] Top image: Scribbly Gum Track, National Parks NSW
Set amongst the rolling hills above Orange, you'll find luxury cabins planted in the heart of a cherry orchard: Basalt. It's named for the volcanic rock of the now-dormant volcano Gaanha-bule (Mount Canobolas) that enriches the soil of said cherry orchard. Basalt has three secluded studios which sleep two people, each with its own unique design and backstory. The Chaser Studio — a homage to those who chase their dreams as the orchard operators did in the 1970s when they turned the neglected piece of land into the fruitful orchard it came to be — is perched atop the hill overlooking the cherry trees, enjoying 180-degree views to the north, east and south. The Drifter Studio is named for fruit pickers from all walks of life who have passed through the orchard over the years. Finally, the Yonder Studio is situated 80 metres from the nearest studio and is the most secluded of the three — it is grafted into the hillside and looks out over the neighbouring eucalypts. Each studio is fitted out with a king-sized bed, kitchenette, bath (with views), internal wood fire and outdoor firepit, telescope for land- and stargazing, aircon and continental breakfast for your first morning. You may feel like you're a world away while staying at Basalt, but it's only a short 11 kilometres from the town of Orange and offers numerous add-ons — including winery tours, stargazing sessions and Indigenous cultural experiences — as well as recommendations for experiences visitors can take while in the Orange region. Be entranced by the seasonality of the natural surroundings, no matter what time of the year you plan to visit — enjoy lush bountiful summer days, auburn autumnal leaves, frosted bare branches in winter or budding blossoms in spring. It's an excellent hub from which to explore the Orange region. Images: Monique Lovick
Rise and shine, your next adventure is Montague Island, a magnificent nature reserve nine kilometres off shore. It hosts the biggest fur seal colony in New South Wales, which attracts as many as 2500 seasonal residents, as well as over 90 bird species and a 12,000-strong little penguin colony. The best time to visit if you want a good chance of seeing these animals is during spring, but from late winter the seal colony on the island starts to grow and you're likely to spot penguins on an evening walk around the island. For a more organised tour, Lighthouse Charters offers a variety of options, including day trips with whale watching, snorkelling with fur seals and little penguin watching. To make the most of your trip, book an overnight stay. Montague Island's Assistant Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage sleeps seven people across three bedrooms, and you'll more or less have the island to yourself. Before leaving Narooma, grab an antipasto grazing box from Mr Bold Catering Co, which comes packed with local cheeses, chutneys, cured meats and fruit. Images: Destination NSW
We know beach, barbies and blue skies make a perfect summer, but nowadays our favourite season isn’t complete without an hour or two at our city’s arguably most iconic attraction. For the third year running, the Sydney Opera House is transforming itself into a playground of sights, bites and goodies including The Summerhouse Tour to take you behind the scenes where the magic happens, as well as summer specials promotions to ensure you make the most of every mouthful. Running until the end of January from 5pm daily, the Summerhouse Tour (one hour, $45) is ideal if you’re new to the city or an Opera House old hat. Not only will you finish with a beer, wine or Bellini, taking in the sunset surrounded by the buzzing crowd, but you’ll explore scenes and settings us normal folk would usually never get to see. Led by an expert guide (with a few insider secrets to divulge), you’ll explore theatres, foyers and off-limit areas where more than 1,600 shows have wowed crowds over the House’s 58-year history. Book online and save 10% on your ticket, or if you can’t make the 5pm start, fear not: all other tours will be running as usual from 9am. The recently renovated Opera Bar will be decked out in a tropical theme and offering a juicy $20 prawn cocktail promo plus two drink specials. Nab yourself a young coconut (spiked, of course) or a deliciously cooling slushie, available in watermelon granite or frosty fruit flavours. The theatre bars themselves will be dressed up to suit the summer theme, with three seasonal cocktails at $15 each, including the fresh lemon and ginger, rum and lemonade Aloha; a Paradise Point of vodka, lemon juice, honey and ginger ale; and the Pink Bikini, combining tequila, grapefruit and lime juice. For something non-alcoholic, keep your eyes peeled for the Liana Raine popsicle cart serving on the Upper Concourse. Then — with sandpits, interactive performances, a Veuve Clicquot pop up and dedicated kids' areas — to name just a few attractions (more detail here), all that’s left is to enjoy summer like a true Sydneysider. For the full program, see the Summerhouse website.
If you're lucky enough to score tickets to Meredith Music Festival in any year via the event's ballot, one of Australia's best fests awaits no matter the lineup. 2025's roster of acts is characteristically impressive, however. On the bill: TV on the Radio, Atarashii Gakko! and Perfume Genius, for starters, as well as Thee Sacred Souls, Pa Salieu, HAAi, Bar Italia, Colin Hay and Mildlife. And, there's still more where the came from. Folk Bitch Trio, Saya Gray, RONA. and Omar Souleyman are on the lineup, too. So are Dames Brown, Radio Free Alice, Sam Austins RP Boo, Wax'o Paradiso, Florist and Jack J. Add in Drifting Clouds, Dr Sure's Unusual Practice, Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, Mouseatouille, Brown Spirits and Lazy Susan on MC duties, and expect a jam-packed three days across Friday, December 5–Sunday, December 7, 2025. [caption id="attachment_1017125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chip Mooney[/caption] How is the fest crew describing this year's event? "One of the best places on earth to spend a weekend, the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre has been natured and nurtured and then natured again, for the singular purpose of hosting the time of your life," organisers advise. So, expect "a permanent and purpose-built underground wunderland that provides optimal conditions for rarefied reverie", as well as to get "lost in music, lost in one another, for three days and two nights of Sup'ed up saucery". [caption id="attachment_1017126" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sumner Dilworth[/caption] Meredith Music Festival 2025 Lineup TV on the Radio Atarashii Gakko! Perfume Genius Thee Sacred Souls Pa Salieu HAAi Bar Italia Colin Hay Mildlife Folk Bitch Trio Saya Gray RONA. Omar Souleyman Dames Brown Radio Free Alice Sam Austins RP Boo Wax'o Paradiso Florist Jack J Drifting Clouds Dr Sure's Unusual Practice Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir Mouseatouille Brown Spirits Lazy Susan Top images: Leah Hulst, Cody Critcheloe.
Libertine Parfumerie, a leading destination for niche and luxury fragrances, invites scent lovers to an immersive day of olfactory discovery at Ace Hotel Sydney this September. Known for introducing some of the world's most prestigious perfume houses to the Australian market, Libertine is bringing its expertise out of the boutique and into an elevated series of masterclasses at the stylish Surry Hills hotel. Three unique experiences will take place across the day. Kicking things off is the Creed Discovery Masterclass, where ticketholders will be among the first to discover the historic house's newest fragrance alongside an edit of the 265-year-old brand's most celebrated scents. The Gourmand Masterclass may spark delicious sensory overload by pairing food-inspired perfumes with eight creative mini desserts. Finally, the Perfume & Cocktails Masterclass is an after-dark exploration of fine fragrance and mixology, where eight mini cocktails (including two mocktails) are matched with complementary perfumes, served with a selection of canapés. All sessions will be led by Lucy Borland, an internationally renowned fragrance expert with over 30 years' experience in the beauty and fragrance industry. Each guest will be welcomed with bubbles on arrival before embarking on their chosen sensory journey. Tickets also include a $69 voucher to redeem on purchases made during the event, plus a luxurious gift with purchase on qualifying perfume buys. Whether you're a seasoned perfume connoisseur or just fragrance-curious, this is a rare opportunity to explore the artistry of perfumery in a luxurious, experience-driven setting with one of Australia's foremost experts.
Life-changing meals aren't just found in the hottest restaurants. Whether you're travelling on a budget or just want to find out what dishes locals actually hold nearest and dearest, looking beyond the standard menu ensures you encounter something a little more exciting. Luckily, taking your next culinary adventure off the beaten path is just a matter of opening yourself up to kaleidoscopic street food markets and tucked-away joints. Together with Intrepid, we've curated a list of epic food experiences that you can enjoy that aren't in a restaurant. Monjayaki You've probably heard of okonomiyaki, but what about its lesser-known cousin? Monjayaki sees fresh ingredients like cabbage, corn, kimchi and cod cooked on a piping-hot griddle, then shaped into a doughnut as rich dashi broth is poured into the middle. Once mixed and fried, it's similar to okonomiyaki, just with a runnier texture and more delicious caramelised bits fused to the bottom. Synonymous with Tokyo's Tsukishima district, monjayaki is the ideal Japanese street food to try on your next trip. Cao Lau Vietnamese staples like pho and banh mi are deservedly adored, but it's not every day you can enjoy a hot bowl of cao lau. The most beloved dish in Hoi An — a fascinating port city shaped by its merchant past — what makes this local meal so special is how its noodles are prepared. Soaked in wells where water is mixed with wood ash collected from the Cham Islands, this gives the noodles a smokey flavour and firm texture. Typically served with thinly sliced pork, greens and bean sprouts, plan your trip to Hoi An to experience the dish. Bindae-Tteok Travelling to South Korea means you're bound to encounter a myriad of mazey markets bursting with sumptuous dishes you won't likely find on any restaurant menu. In Seoul, the go-to destination is Gwangjang Market — a sprawling gastronomic haven made even more popular by Netflix's 'Street Food' series. Across 5,000 stalls, flavours that tantalise your tastebuds are around every corner, including the wonders of bindae-tteok. This street food favourite sees mung bean batter combined with cabbage, kimchi and pork, then deep-fried to perfection and served with condiments like soy sauce and vinegar. Chiles En Nogada Finding authentic Mexican cuisine in Australia can be tricky. So, if you're planning a real food adventure to experience the good stuff, setting your sights on the country's national dishes is a smart way to get your palate up to speed with what's what. Native to Puebla, chiles en nogada bursts with bright flavours, featuring stuffed chillies covered in creamy walnut sauce. Best eaten when pomegranates are freshest from August to October, the dish's patriotic red, white and green ingredients give every bite a little extra zeal. Medfouna Influenced by cultures from Europe to Asia, traditional Moroccan food is the amalgamation of countless flavours. Yet for a dish beloved for hundreds of years by the country's nomadic Amazigh people, medfouna ensures you discover the taste of High Atlas cuisine. Nicknamed 'Amazigh pizza', medfouna is a stuffed flatbread set atop hot stones and buried beneath the red sand to cook. Loaded with meats, nuts, vegetables, herbs and spices, it's soon dug up and cut into slices, resembling pizza as you've never seen before. Ambul Thiyal Every Sri Lankan food extravaganza needs an abundance of hoppers, sambal and lamprais. Yet being a tropical paradise, overlooking the region's seafood is a mistake. Ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry, is one dish that elegantly balances the cuisine's intense spices with tangy goodness. Commonly made with fresh tuna, a fragrant mix of aromatic spices brings this beloved curry to life with black pepper, cinnamon, pandan and turmeric adding more and more flavour. Served with rice, the secret ingredient is goraka — a tiny tropical fruit loved for its tartness. Baccala Mantecato Italian cuisine is found worldwide for good reason — it's fresh, fun and made to share. However, it's best not to lump the country's cuisine together as a monolith. When you're chasing the best Italian flavours, the region-to-region, town-to-town variations make all the difference. An essential Venetian dish, baccala mantecato, or salted cod, is a stellar example of this local heritage. Brought to Venice from Norway by 15th-century traders, the cod is soaked and whipped, then served on toasted bread or polenta — perfect when sipping on an aperitif. Malai Ki Sabzi It's hard to imagine food more flavourful than Mughlai cuisine. Renowned for its rich, colourful dishes, much of what you'll taste is packed with potent ingredients like saffron, cardamon, cream and butter. Malai ki sabzi is a traditional meal that captures the magic. Local vegetables are cooked with cream and given a pungent boost with the full-flavoured combination of garlic, turmeric, coriander and green chilli. Take a food adventure to India to learn how to make this incredible dish with help from a cook specialising in Mughlai cuisine. Pachamanca Based upon centuries of colonial rule and immigration, Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of global influences. In fact, two of the country's most popular cuisines — 'nikkei' and 'chifa' — showcase how local flavours have merged with Japanese and Chinese culinary ideas. The cuisine emerging from atop the Andes mountains is just as special. Meaning 'earth pot', pachamanca is the ideal introduction, with scorching hot rocks used to cook pork, lamb or chicken seasoned with black mint and broad beans. Journey to Cusco to get a taste. Francesinha Toasties are still enjoying time in the culinary sun, so why not feast on the Portuguese version of a croque monsieur? Almost every cafe in Porto has its own version, but a tried-and-true francesinha sees layers of beef, ham and sausage stacked between two thick slices of toast. This decadent creation is next draped in melted cheese from top to bottom, then drenched in a traditional sauce made from tomato and beer. Served alongside a big portion of fries, a Portugal food tour will highlight how the 'little French sandwich' is really a fully-fledged meal. Get out, explore, dive into adventure and find your WOW with Intrepid Travel. Find out more on the website. Top Images: Gwangjang Market, Mike Swigunski
Alright chinas, we need to have a rabbit and pork about Guy Ritchie's new $175 million rattle and clank buster: Kin Arfur: Jackanory of the Drum and Fife – an altogether pony and trap reimagining of the classic weep and wail that's light on the brass tacks, sore on the mince pies and pretty much tom tit. If you struggled to understand that, consider it our version of the "you must be this tall to get on the ride" sign for Guy Ritchie's calamitous take on the famous Arthurian tale. As with every Ritchie flick (see: Snatch, RocknRolla and Sherlock Holmes, among others), cockney banter flies thick and fast between Arthur's merry band of streetwise vagabonds, all of whom sport names like Goose-fat Bill, Wet Stick, Back Lack and Chinese George. Unlike Ritchie's previous outings, however, there's little wit or charm to back up the slang. Instead, we're given in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword a CGI-heavy romp that moves at such a frantic and disjointed pace that simply keeping up with the story feels like a greater test of character and strength than actually pulling Excalibur from the stone. Worse still, there's nothing new about any of it. Between the giant elephants (Return of the King), the 'bullet-time' slow motion (The Matrix) and an enormous killer snake (Harry Potter), it's all far too much like a video game we've played many times before and know exactly how to beat. There are, at least, a few notable highlights. Charlie Hunnam and Jude Law both put in commendable performances as Arthur and his evil uncle Vortigern, with Law in particular ensnaring the eye for every second he's on screen. Villainy suits the actor, whose charm and cheekiness take on a decidedly darker turn when given the right material with which to play. There's also a neat little twist on the sword/stone component itself, which – at least for a time – raises King Arthur: Legend of the Sword to a level worthy of its storied subject matter. Unfortunately, there's far too much style and not nearly enough substance to hold the film's loose narrative threads together. Snap cuts and fancy editing helped put Guy Ritchie on the map, but in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword there's no duck and diving the fact that it's all gone proper pete and tong. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIM4-HLtUM0
Finally, 2020 is delivering the right kind of surprise: an unexpected sequel to 2006 mockumentary Borat! Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. If at any point in 2020 you've wondered what Borat Sagdiyev might make of both COVID-19 and the upcoming US election — and what he might coax unsuspecting interviewees to admit about those topics, too — this 14-years-later sequel is here to deliver the answer. Even better, it'll be available to stream in just a few weeks. Sacha Baron Cohen returns as the fictional Kazakh journalist, of course, in a film that no one knew existed until recently. Baron Cohen was seen shooting in mid-2020, but only in the past month has it emerged that he was secretly working on Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. (Yes, this out-of-the-blue follow-up was always going to have a lengthy and silly title.) Streaming globally via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, October 23, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm sees its eponymous character make another trip to the US, this time with his daughter (Irina Nowak) in tow. After the first film apparently brought "great shame to Kazakhstan", as Borat tells us in the new movie's just-dropped first trailer, he's on a secret mission. But he's famous in America now, so that sparks a few challenges — and requires a few disguises. If you're wondering what Borat's mission is, he's planning to give his daughter as a gift "to someone close to the throne" — aka current US Vice President Mike Pence. Along the way, he tries to kill the coronavirus by hitting it with a frying pan, dresses up like Donald Trump, dances more than once, exposes plenty of unpleasant viewpoints among those he meets and finds an unusual way to wear a face mask. So, typical Borat antics — and that's just in this first sneak peek. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rsa4U8mqkw&feature=youtu.be Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan will be available to stream via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, October 23.
This sleek-yet-cosy cafe on Rangers Road is just a stone's throw from bustling Military Road, but feels worlds away. So although you're spoiled for choice when it comes to brunch spots in Neutral Bay, At Neutral is well worth a stop in. Expect the usual suspects on the breakfast menu, but with some unique dishes thrown in such as the Za'atar roasted eggplant with sunflower seed cream, roasted cherry tomatoes, crispy curry leaves and dukkah on toasted sourdough ($19). Or, if you're after an OTT brekkie, order the lobster toast served with citrus creme fraiche, pickled fennel, finger lime, fresh greens, anchovy oil and 63-degree egg ($21). Coffee here is from local roastery Calibrate Coffee and, for the sweet tooths among us, there's a selection of pastries on offer, too — think house-made muffins, friands and flaky croissants.
When you get cosy on the couch with Netflix for entertainment in 2025, you'll be getting sleuthing and tap, tap, tapping; returning to the Upside Down and Nevermore Academy; seeing Oscar Isaac bring Jacob Elordi to life; and discovering which new twisted visions of humanity's use of technology that Charlie Brooker has dreamed up now. They're just some of the movies and TV shows that are set to join your streaming queue this year, with the platform unveiling its annual overview (see also: 2022, 2023 and 2024) of what's hitting its catalogue. 2025's slate also boasts Squid Game's final season, a sequel to The Old Guard, a new Fear Street flick and more Nobody Wants This. From the above, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery marks the third film in the Benoit Blanc franchise, this time with Daniel Craig (Queer) joined by Josh O'Connor (Challengers), Glenn Close (Back in Action), Josh Brolin (Outer Range), Mila Kunis (Goodrich), Jeremy Renner (Mayor of Kingstown), Kerry Washington (The Six Triple Eight), Andrew Scott (Ripley), Cailee Spaeny (Civil War), Daryl McCormack (Bad Sisters) and Thomas Haden Church (Twisted Metal). Adam Sandler (Spaceman) is back on the green in Happy Gilmore 2, which arrives almost three decades after the franchise's first golfing comedy. And, after riffing on Frankenstein in various ways for much of his career, Guillermo del Toro (Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio) has finally officially adapted Mary Shelley's novel — with Isaac (Moon Knight) as its namesake and Elordi (Priscilla) as his creature. As well as more of Charlize Theron (Fast X) in action mode and more RL Stine-based horror, Netflix's list of upcoming movies also sports more Sandler — this time with George Clooney (Wolfs) and Laura Dern (Lonely Planet) in Noah Baumbach's (White Noise) comedy Jay Kelly. Netflix's roster also features Conclave director Edward Berger's The Ballad of a Small Player, a gambling drama with Colin Farrell (The Penguin) and Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door); Vanessa Kirby (Napoleon)-led page-to-screen thriller Night Always Comes; and Matt Damon (The Instigators) and Ben Affleck (The Flash) sharing the screen again in the Miami-set RIP, which co-stars Steven Yeun (Beef). Or, there's Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer) portraying a fraying teacher in Steve — and Oscar-winning director Kathryn Bigelow making her first film since 2017's Detroit, with Idris Elba (Sonic the Hedgehog 3), Rebecca Ferguson (Silo), Anthony Ramos (Twisters) and Greta Lee (Past Lives) among the cast. Australian filmmaker Simon Stone (The Dig) adapts The Woman in Cabin 10 into a movie, starring Keira Knightley (Black Doves), Guy Pearce (The Brutalist) and Hannah Waddingham (The Fall Guy). Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club is hitting the screen with Helen Mirren (1923), Pierce Brosnan (Four Letters of Love) and Ben Kingsley (The Killer's Game); Roald Dahl's The Twits is getting the animated treatment; and documentaries on Eddie Murphy, the Manson murders and the Titan submersible are on the way. Even just among the movie options, the lineup goes on. So, a reboot of 1975 Japanese thriller The Bullet Train, this time called Bullet Train Explosion, sits alongside the Omar Sy (The Killer)-led French Lover, South Korean missing-person flick Revelations and Troll sequel Troll 2 — and plenty more. TV fans can get excited about the returns of Stranger Things and Wednesday, with the former saying farewell — but the Duffer brothers have advised that they're executive producing two new shows, The Boroughs and Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen, that'll debut in 2026. Back on 2025, the television comebacks also span Black Mirror, A Man on the Inside, The Vince Staples Show, Alice in Borderland, The Sandman, The Witcher, Cobra Kai, You, Big Mouth, Emily in Paris, The Diplomat and MONSTER. There's much to look forward to among Netflix's new TV shows for the year as well, such as heading back to 1850s Oregon with Lena Headey (Beacon 23) and Gillian Anderson (Scoop) in The Abandons, Claire Danes (Full Circle) playing a writer facing grief in The Beast in Me, Jude Law (Skeleton Crew) and Jason Bateman (Carry-On) starring in Black Rabbit, and the Danish Department Q novels receiving an English-language adaptation led by Matthew Goode (Abigail). Tina Fey (Mean Girls), Steve Carell (Despicable Me 4), Will Forte (Bodkin) and Colman Domingo (Sing Sing) team up for The Four Seasons, playing friends going away for a weekend; The Residence sets a whodunnit in the White House; Last Samurai Standing journeys back to 19th-century Japan; and Italian historical drama The Leopard, which already jumped from a novel to cinemas in the 60s, is now headed to television. Plus, you can also make a date with Agatha Christie adaptation The Seven Dials Mystery, with Helena Bonham Carter (One Life) and Martin Freeman (The Responder) featuring — plus Sirens with Julianne Moore (May December), Meghann Fahy (The Perfect Couple), Milly Alcock (House of the Dragon), Kevin Bacon (MaXXXine), Glenn Howerton (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Josh Segarra (The Big Door Prize). Conspiracy thriller Zero Day boasts Robert De Niro (Killers of the Flower Moon), Angela Bassett (9-1-1), Lizzy Caplan (Fatal Attraction) and Jesse Plemons (Kinds of Kindness) among its stars; Victoria Beckham gets her own documentary to match her husband's; Eric Bana (Force of Nature: The Dry 2) plays a special agent for the National Parks Service in Untamed; and Hacks' Megan Stalter leads Lena Dunham's Too Much. Apple Cider Vinegar and The Survivors are among the new shows made in Australia, the first ripped from the headlines and led by Kaitlyn Dever (Good Grief), and the second adapting The Dry author Jane Harper's Tasmania-set novel. Check out Netflix's ads and teasers for its 2025 slate below: New movies and TV shows will hit Netflix throughout 2025 — head to the streaming platform for its current catalogue. Images: Netflix.
Sydneysiders love a market, especially one where you can revamp your wardrobe. There's nothing like finding that new 'fit for your next night out. There's the thrill of searching through the racks to stumble upon the piece. Plus, shopping secondhand and upcycled clothing is more sustainable than buying your clothes new. That's why the Second Life Markets have become such a hit, not only in Sydney, but across the country. The beloved get-together of stallholders is back in the Harbour City on Saturday, March 16, but this time it's mixing things up, partnering with Machine Hall Precinct for a day dedicated to designer vintage threads. If you're after a Dexter Wong piece from the 90s, 2001 Stella McCartney, a throwback Balenciaga chimney jacket or a terracotta Acne Studios denim set, this is the place to be. You can wander through pop-ups from vintage curators including Qurated, KOT-J, Filter Store, Mari Maria, Feeber Archive and Sybistro, stumbling upon your next statement piece to impress your friends with. There will also be DJ sets from KUTA, PEA OH MA and Matthias. And, there will be food and drink stalls so that you can stay well-fed and browse with a bev in hand. The market will run from 12–6pm. The cost of entry varies but is $21 max and, in the sustainable spirit of the market, it's asked that you bring your own reusable shopping bags with you on the day. If you want to make a day out of it, there are plenty of quality spots to grab lunch before or a drink and dinner after you shop (if you don't spend all your hard-earned on cute outfits). Our local picks are 'Oti, Palazzo Salato, Cantina OK! or Cash Only Diner, depending on what you're after.
Baba's Place has become such a local favourite in the Sydney hospitality scene so quickly it would be understandable if you thought it had been around for more than twelve months. Renowned for its unmatched atmosphere, vibrant warehouse space, killer wine selection and top-notch food, the Marrickville venue swung its doors open last October and to celebrate its first birthday it's throwing a free day party on Sunday, October 23. Baba's Place began as a series of pop-ups across Sydney, with a tasty take on a fillet-o-fish being one of the standout menu items in its early days. While the fish burger didn't make it onto the restaurant menu when Baba's made the jump to a permanent location last year, the team is bringing back the burger for one-day-only as part of the festivities. Other specials include birthday cocktails, gelato from the Mapo Bus, and DJ sets from a range of tastemakers who you may have seen behind the decks at Baba's over the last 12 months. If this sounds like an ideal way to spend your Sunday, head down to Baba's Place in the backstreets of Marrickville between midday–4pm.
Summer might still be months away, but one of the season's main bugbears now has a solution. As everyone that's enjoyed an icy cold popsicle on a sweltering day knows, frozen sweet treats come with their own inbuilt game — can you lick your way through your icy pole fast enough to avoid getting covered in watery drips? The answer is no, of course — until now. Dripping icy poles might become a thing of the past thanks to food artists Bombas & Parr, who've unveiled what they're calling the world's first non-melting ice lolly. Their creation finds its basis in a substance that dates back seven decades, and one you probably haven't heard of. During World War II, inventor Geoffrey Pyke came up with pyrkete, a frozen composite material made with a combination of sawdust and wood pulp dispersed in ice. It was originally part of his lofty dreams to build a floating runway that could be used in the middle of the ocean during battle — all made of ice. The structure didn't end up eventuating, but his idea gave Bombas & Parr their starting point all these years later. Bombas & Parr's version doesn't use any wood-related materials, but is made with edible fruit fibres instead. The London-based outfit says their pykrete-inspired icy poles "last immeasurably longer than conventional ice lollies", and if their experiment goes down a treat, they'll look at rolling out the desserts in supermarkets. For now, those wanting to give the ice blocks a try will need to be in London, and will also need to visit Bompas & Parr's current SCOOP: A Wonderful Ice Cream World exhibition. On August 22, attendees will be able to buy and try the non-melting icy poles, and offer their feedback. And if you're wondering about ice creams with the same properties, they're already a thing thanks to researchers in Japan.
The Centipede Cinema is way less creepy than it sounds. The Bartlett School of Architecture in Portugal has designed a cinema in which each moviegoer manoeuvres his or her body into one of the yellow tubes that makes up the giant centipede structure to view the film. Located in Guimarães and conceived by Professor Colin Fournier with artist Marysia Lewandowska, the Centipede Cinema was commissioned by the 2012 European Capital of Culture. The design team for the project included NEON founders, George King and Mark Nixon. Resembling a sort of futuristic alien spaceship, this highly unique cinema invites people to enter one of the 16 nozzles poking out from below the cork structure. The viewer's entire upper body is encompassed by the nozzle, however the legs are out in the open for the rest of the world to see. This creates what looks like a giant cork centipede but is really just 16 people enjoying a film.
Living up to its name, Daily Greens is good for you — particularly if you like sustainable, zero-waste food in a relaxed courtyard setting perfectly designed to capture the best of the warmer weather. Bright, airy, and leafy, this disarming spot on Glenmore Road offers some of the best salads in town. If you're thinking that means a compromise on flavour or nourishment, one look at the extensive menu will surely have you salivating. Choose from a selection of warm or cold bowls such as the Fun Guy, Funghi, which comes loaded with mushrooms, almonds, corn chips, quinoa, cabbage, kale slaw and cherry tomatoes, or the Avo and Lentils with fresh avocado, shredded carrot wild rocket and roasted almonds for a satisfying, flavour-rich lunch. There is also a build-your-own option so you can let loose some creative flair with your own choices of bases, dressings, fillings, toppings and textures to meet all your hunger cravings. Seasonal sandwiches, soups and daily specials round out the menu, plus 24-hour cold-brew coffee to wash it all down. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Across four seasons of Stranger Things so far, entering a rift to the Upside Down hasn't transported anyone Down Under. But jumping into the hit Netflix series' world keeps proving a reality in Australia — first via one of those portals popping up in Bondi back in 2022, and next courtesy of Stranger Things: The Experience, which has just locked in its Aussie debut at Luna Park Sydney as part of Vivid's just-unveiled 2025 program. Luna Park Sydney and immersive experiences based on Netflix shows keep going hand in hand of late; since the end of 2024, the Harbour City tourist attraction has been hosting Squid Game: The Experience, letting small-screen fans dive into another streaming smash. At the time of writing, playing Red Light, Green Light with Young-hee in Luna Park's big top is on the agenda until late April. Stranger Things: The Experience will run from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14. The must-attend event falls into the Ideas portion of Vivid's lineup. Get ready to visit 1986 — and also Hawkins, Indiana, of course — in what promises to be an interactive stint of Stranger Things-loving fun. Locations from the show are part of the setup, as is a supernatural mystery. And yes, you can expect to feel nostalgic, even if you don't have your own memories of the 80s because you hadn't been born yet. Stranger Things: The Experience isn't just about visiting recreations of settings that you've seen while watching Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown, The Electric State) and the gang. The installation features its own storyline, where playing along means trying to save Hawkins from yet another threat. And yes, you will take a trip to the Upside Down. You'll also be able to drink themed cocktails. Based on its time in other cities, Demogorgons and/or Vecna might await, too, along with Christmas lights, Scoops Ahoy and Surfer Boy Pizza. The experience initially opened in New York in 2022, and has enjoyed dates with Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Seattle, Toronto, London, Paris and São Paulo since, with a Rio de Janeiro stint also on the way. "The rift is open and we're excited that our Stranger Things fans will get to jump into the magic once more," said Greg Lombardo, Head of Experiences at Netflix, back when the New York iteration launched. "This time they will take on the challenges themselves and work alongside Eleven, Mike, and the rest of the gang to fight the evil monsters plaguing Hawkins. As Dustin would say, you always say we should never stop being curious, to always open any curiosity door we find," Lombardo continued. Hanging out for new Stranger Things back in your Netflix queue? That's due to happen in 2025, when the show's fifth and final series arrives — although there's no exact release date as yet. Stranger Things: The Experience arrives at Luna Park Sydney, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point from Friday, May 23. For more information, head to the Vivid Sydney website. Vivid Sydney 2025 runs from Friday, May 23–Saturday, June 14 across Sydney. Head to the festival website for further information. Images: Netflix.
I learnt this week that the Queen Victoria Building has a time capsule. It was installed after the restoration of the building in the mid-1980s and won't be opened for 100 years. Time capsules are an interesting way of giving priority to certain objects and they also enable us to convey what we believe are our strongest values and attributes. If those in a century were to develop an understanding of the aesthetic of our time I would like them to do this with the help of Rene Vaile's photography. Objects in a time capsule exist in a unique temporality. Initially, they exist in the moment before being locked away. Then they remain in stasis; in a sense, they don't belong to a moment in time. Only in the future will they be used again, and the different use values attached to them will recast them as new objects, almost with a new temporal history. Rene's photos seem suitable for such a destiny because they are in a sense already petrified. The absence of any contextual detail lends these images a timelessness of their own. Only when grouped together do patterns emerge; we sense Vaile piecing something together. But what is it? Pink socks (Uniqlo?), crystals; such items are shot by Vaile without a self-reflexive gaze. One is not aware of the constructed nature of these images. Instead, they appear as a new set of symbols, a new language, with which Rene sets about communicating all that he sees around him. It's a world that seems oddly familiar. Death metal album covers, street brawls, constellations of stars — Vaile's taste for content is inspired. The installation of floor-to-ceiling images spoils the viewer with a snapshot of what Vaile is digging right now. The collaged format has long been a vital element of the workspace of many creative folk — here the photographer has transformed this into a conceptual work. None of the works were produced with this show in mind, but their accumulation has created a work in itself. Rene Vaile's exhibition Just Treasure is showing at the Edition store during opening hours until October 7. There is a limited edition print on sale also.
If you're watching a film in a darkened theatre without some sort of snack in your hand, are you really at the cinema? Lovers of popcorn and choc tops certainly don't think so. And while whipping up a bowl of popped corn kernels in the microwave is a rather easy way to help recreate that movie magic at home at the moment, enjoying a choc top — a proper cinema-quality choc top, not just your own attempt — isn't quite that simple while Australian picture palaces are temporarily closed. To help satisfy Australia's choc top cravings during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoyts has been delivering them (and popcorn and other movie snacks as well). Other cinemas have been selling the desserts, too, such as Melbourne's Cinema Nova and Sydney's Golden Age Cinema and Bar. But if you'd just like to grab a few from the supermarket, you'll now find Bulla's choc tops in Coles' freezer aisle for a limited period. It's the first time that Bulla's choc tops have been available outside of movie theatres, with different flavours on offer in different states. Ice cream fiends in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania can lick their way through mint, vanilla, salted caramel, and cookies and cream varieties, while Queenslanders, Western Australians and South Australians can opt for mint, vanilla, choc fudge and boysenberry. https://www.instagram.com/p/CArIHWhgWUg/ Bulla and Coles haven't revealed just how long the choc tops will be on the freezer shelves; however the fact that the majority of cinemas aren't aiming to reopen in Australia until mid-July might be a good guide. Find Bulla's choc tops in the Coles freezer aisle for a limited time. For further details, visit the Bulla or Coles websites.
Bluesfest has been a firm fixture of Australia's Easter weekend music calendar since its inception in 1990. Well, give or take a couple of years of COVID cancellations, of course. But now, for the first time, Melburnians will be able to get their Bluesfest fix without the pilgrimage north, when the inaugural Bluesfest Melbourne delivers the goods from Saturday, April 8–Sunday, April 9 next year. Yep, the iconic blues and roots celebration is getting its very own southern spinoff, running the same weekend that the OG fest descends on its usual home in the Byron Bay region. The new instalment will take over the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for two days of live music, dancing, eating and drinking, headlined by renowned names like Lucinda Williams, C.W Stoneking and Buddy Guy. [caption id="attachment_877649" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kasey Chambers, by Sam Meuleman[/caption] The indoor setting is set to be a distinct change-up from the fest's not-so-weatherproof Byron base, with multiple indoor stages and theatre spaces ensuring not even Melbourne's erratic weather can throw a spanner in the works. The precinct will fire up with sounds from Aussie festival favourites like Xavier Rudd, Kasey Chambers, Henry Wagons and Ash Grunwald, along with the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Eric Gales, Paolo Nutini, Steve Earle, Melbourne Ska Orchestra and Eugene "Hideaway" Bridges. All up, you'll be able to catch more than 30 performances across the weekend. [caption id="attachment_877647" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ash Grunwald[/caption] There are a range of ticketing options on offer, from single-day passes to full weekend tickets. Buzz has also been building for the OG Bluesfest's next edition, with names like Beck, Elvis Costello, Mavis Staples and Gang of Youths set to make their way to Byron Events Farm at Tyagarah for a huge Easter weekend. [caption id="attachment_877646" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Doobie Brothers[/caption] Bluesfest Melbourne will run from April 8–9, 2023, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Grab tickets online from 9am on Monday, November 14. Top Images: Buddy Guy. Lucinda Williams, by Danny Clinch.
If the giftee in question is a keen traveller — the type who always seems to be heading to some exotic destination — then chances are you'll find something at The Wanderers Travel Co. This Sutherland-based label is dedicated to jetsetters and, more specifically, those who like the finer aspects of travel, like luxury hotels, good restaurants and slick cocktail bars. You're bound to stumble across something among the stunning handbags, stylish passport covers, cool leather jackets and travel shoes perfect for some villa on Lake Como.
Sydney boy Jack Milas left home for Brooklyn about three years ago, armed with a guitar, a killer falsetto and a head full of tunes. Six months later, his friend and musical collaborator, Oli Chang, followed on his heels. At the time, the two had completed just one song together, the original version of which, according to Milas, "no one will ever hear'". This summer they're returning as High Highs, with a pile of flashy reviews from the likes of NME and The Guardian under one arm and a management deal with Elton John's Rocket Music under the other. Their folksy and lyrical yet grounded combination of honeyed harmonies, subtly arranged synths and dashes of acoustic rock has been garnering quite a following both in New York and online. Apart from a handful of early gigs at the now sadly boarded-up Hopetoun Hotel, High Highs "haven't really played a proper show in Australia". They'll certainly be making up for it this visit, as they drop their debut LP just days before appearances at the Laneway Festival and satellite shows in Sydney and Melbourne. https://youtube.com/watch?v=iiVIB_W-MSw
Have you ever hosted a dinner party? It's no simple thing. Making a quality menu, inviting the right guests, keeping things tidy and most importantly, fun. It's a part-time job for people like Andrew Minutillo, who — other than writing on Substack and creating cookbooks like Souvenirs; Four Dinner Parties in Review and working a non-culinary full-time gig — is the mind, hands and most of the effort behind George Street RSL. Despite the name, George Street RSL is not an actual Returned & Services League. It is, however, inspired by the communal feel of a local RSL — generous, unpretentious dining, but without the meat raffles, pokies room and multi-storey parking lot. Minutillo's main vision for the project? To establish a small dining collective in his inner-city apartment and reclaim the art of the dinner party."[George Street RSL] is a reintroduction of the art of a dinner party that doesn't take cues from fine products or high-end, refined, rigid cookery," Minutillo explains. "It actually takes its cues from what exists in my [Italian] culture and exists globally around the world — which is eating in excess." The name? More of an inside joke. Minutillo's dinner parties began in his George Street apartment, with hopes of turning his home into a "cute little bougie boutique," but it didn't last. "I think our dinner parties were originally starting around 7pm and then the more we did them, we were eating dinner at midnight to 1:00 am. So, I was like, this is definitely more of an RSL." These are no basic potlucks either, Minutillo themes each party around a concept or culture. "We did a Mariah Carey one, we did Egyptian night, we did gay guy food, we did medieval food," Minutllo rattles them off with a smile, showing Concrete Playground a detailed list of future ideas on his phone. We catch glimpses of entries like "Bosnian food" and "guy Hooters". In the process of creating these menus, Minutillo has drawn a lot of inspiration from underappreciated dishes around Sydney. He took a moment to tell us about some of his favourites. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Andreas | Travel & Street Photography (@viewfinderandy) Panini and an espresso: Raineri's Continental Delicatessen, Five Dock "My family have been going to Raineri's since before I was born. We aren't really inner-west Italians (shout out City of Ryde), but we travel a lot to hit up the shelves. The Raineri family stock their shelves with some real, quality, Nonna-approved inclusions for your Italian pantry. If you go for a panini, let Sam freestyle it and stock up on some deli items while you wait. Be nice, Sam might make you an espresso if you're cool about it." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sun ming (@sun_ming_hurstville) Sizzling Silken Tofu: Sun Ming, Hurstville "The Cha Chaan Teng [a style of diner native to Hong Kong] game globally is cutthroat. The cuisine codes are defined and distinct, matched with a customer base unafraid of pointing out any shortfalls. Sun Ming Hurstville thrives in this game as a heavyweight champion of Hong Kong food in Sydney. HK french toast for breakfast, baked pork chop rice for lunch, mud crab vermicelli for dinner — they have you covered." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annie Nguyen (@anniesbucketlist) Chicken Tenda Wrap Combo: Tenda Wrap, Fairfield "Winner of the Official George Street RSL Venue of the Year, unofficial title, but the highest that I can bestow. Tenda Wrap is an earnest corner shop chicken store in Fairfield, serving an emerging national gastronomic treasure — the viral Dubai Chicken Wrap — kind of like a best new artist award. Expert-level chicken chefs hit the grill day in and day out with a perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked, top-tier-level chicken wrap. Pickles, chicken, chips, some kind of special sauce — you know the vibes. A day without the viral Dubai Chicken Wrap is a day wasted." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Splash Coffee and Canteen (@splash.petersham) Chip Butty: Splash Coffee, Petersham "I love swimming, a lot. I love eating after I swim too, like a lot of food. I love hot chips a lot too. I like eating a lot of hot chips after I swim. I love being outside, swimming and eating hot chips. If this sounds like you, walk your speedo down to the Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre and hit up Splash for a Chip Butty. It's all those things I said, which is cool. You will probably see me there, either mid-butty or mid-set. Say hi." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Baba's Place (@babasplace__) Grilled Trout: Baba's Place, Marrickville "I cannot speak more highly about Baba's Place. It's special to me in so many ways. Sincerely speaking, it's nice to be recognised in a culinary way by an institution of Sydney. Seeing my culture and community represented on a plate, in a way that feels both authentic and contemporary. I love seeing wog food in this way, something dynamic but also sentimental, championed by a group of young wogs landmarking our contemporary identity. Wogs grilling trout? It's like a mousetrap to me." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Xavier Miranda (@x.miranda_729) Aloha BBQ Mixed Plate: The Big Big Aloha, St Mary's "I honestly think the team behind The Big Big Aloha think I am a groupie. You know what? I probably am. Who else in Sydney can platform Hawai'ian food like the Big Big Aloha team, in such a deeply delicious way. I follow the Big Big Aloha the same way you would follow the news app — finding out where the truck is going to be this week and how quickly I can get a spam musubi. This is my order, write it down; Aloha BBQ Mix Plate add extra garlic fried chicken, add potato gems and a cold sprite." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Island Dreams Cafe/Eatery (@islanddreamscafe) Mixed Plate: Island Dreams Cafe, Lakemba "Cocos and Keeling food not on your radar? You are supremely lacking. Island Dreams Cafe is a family-run business in Lakemba, with four generations of cooking Cocos and Keeling food in the Lakemba Community. I am really sentimental about Island Dreams, I love sitting with the staff drinking Milo and chowing down on rendang, chicken briyani and tamarind chicken hearts. I love hearing about Cocos and Keeling, and how much they love the Lakemba community." View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIREPOP® | Restaurant and Bar (@firepopaustralia) Classic Set Menu: Firepop, Enmore "I want to call it a rags-to-riches story, but I feel like it was never really rags. It was actually really fabulous. The Firepop team have gone from grilling in a food truck to a really fabulously designed Enmore venue. If it isn't clear, I love the grill. Firepop are beyond grill masters, elevating Sydney's skewer game a head above every other city in the world (my opinion, but intensely true). Interestingly, the same grill masters also sling one of Sydney's best desserts — the buttermilk pannacotta. Legendary stuff." You can find more of Andrew Minutillo's opinions on the George Street RSL Instagram account, on his substack page, or in his cookbook, 'Souvenirs; Four Dinner Parties in Review'. Lead image: Justin Cueno
Watching famous faces star in TV dramas about taking luxe holidays is 2021's current trend, and fans of The White Lotus and Nine Perfect Strangers are definitely here for it. Getting a big dose of travel envy while you're binge-watching? Fancy doing more than spectating via your screen once border restrictions and lockdowns lift? If you're particularly keen to spend some time hanging out in a scenic Byron Bay retreat that's been doubling as the fictional Tranquillum House — and playing host to Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon and Luke Evans — you're in luck. In Nine Perfect Strangers, the real-life Somo Retreat doubles for Tranquillum — and it's now available to rent via Airbnb. So, your next getaway could see you literally following in Kidman and company's footsteps. We're talking about heading to the lavish location, and obviously not about navigating all of the show's twists and turns in real life. Soma is indeed all about heath and wellness just like its fictional counterpart, though, with the retreat stemming from technology entrepreneur Peter Ostick and wellness and meditation practitioner Gary Gorrow. You'll find it in Ewingsdale in New South Wales, and just a ten-minute drive outside of Byron Bay — and it has hit Airbnb as part of the platform's 'Luxe' offering of super swanky and expertly designed homes. If you've seen Nine Perfect Strangers, you'll know what you're in for in terms of facilities. The retreat comes complete with ten bedrooms all decked out with king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, rain showers, and either their own balconies or direct access to the terrace — and there's also a freshwater infinity pool, communal fire pit and 22 acres of bamboo forest. Yes, that geodesic yoga dome exists, too, or you can soak in some calm in the zen garden. [caption id="attachment_823169" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Vince Valitutti/Hulu[/caption] Unsurprisingly, this is a real treat yo'self kind of spot — and the type of getaway that'd need to involve gathering the gang for one hefty hangout — with bookings for the entire place costing a whopping $6279.43 a night. You can also opt to pay extra to include massages, meditation courses, and breath and bodywork sessions as part of your stay, or Ayurvedic meals made by a specialised chef. You can book a stay at Soma in Ewingsdale, New South Wales, via Airbnb. Head to the platform's website for further details. The first four episodes of Nine Perfect Strangers are available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, with new episodes dropping weekly. Soma Retreat images: Romello Pereira. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Sydney lost a long-time legend of the Kings Cross nightclub scene when Hugos closed its doors back in 2015. Now, in the latest move to resurrect the area's nightlife, the space is set to be resurrected by the team behind Double Bay's Casablanca Bar and Restaurant. Flamingo Lounge will open in late September, flashing a brand new Miami-inspired fit-out along with a 3am license and late-night food offering. The new venue was initially intended to be a pop-up, but the team — who will close Casablanca this year — has decided to go full steam ahead and make it permanent. "We knew we'd have to close Casablanca [due to commercial development] and this was the best venue to buy because of its position and history in Kings Cross," says managing partner Poata Okeroa. "The space is a progression from Casablanca for us." The new digs will be decidedly different from Hugos, going for a 1980s vibe that combines Miami glamour with art — think pink neon lights, a retractable DJ stage, plush lounges and mixed-media wall collages. "The artwork and ceiling details will pay homage to the art walls of downtown Miami," says designer Josh Clapp. "The lighting will also have a bit of Las Vegas and Caribbean flare, but we're moving away from that 'New York speakeasy' vibe you see everywhere." The space will be much moodier and darker than Hugos with deep shades of burgundy acting as the main colour scheme. The entire venue has also been expertly soundproofed to make the internal sound quality top-notch — plus, it has the added benefit of keeping the peace with neighbours. As a small homage to the venue's past, the leather from the existing lounges of Hugos will be repurposed as ceiling and wall panels. While the main club is designed to focus on the DJ booth, the adjoining terrace bar will be a more sophisticated cocktail lounge with table service and secluded booths. "If the main club is downtown Miami, then the terrace bar is South Beach," says Clapp. In all, the Flamingo Lounge will house four bars. The venue will host three distinct nightly offerings (which will be announced in the coming months), including a Sunday club night that they hope will bring people out on the last night of the week once more. "We really want to showcase the takeover [of the venue] ‚ we're not trying to make a political statement," says business development manager Sidney Pierucci. This attitude is quite the departure from the previous owners who threatened to sue the NSW Government after closing. Political statement or no, it is exciting to see a new late night club opening in an area where nightlife has been significantly reduced since the lockout laws came into place. Flamingo Lounge will open in late September at 33 Bayswater Road, Sydney. Watch this space for updates and an exact opening date. Image: Hugos.
What was once a wartime torpedo factory and submarine base is now Sydney's newest playground and public space. Located on the harbour between Kirribilli and Kurraba Point in North Sydney, HMAS Platypus is a former submarine base that hasn't been open to the public in over 150 years. Now, the space has been transformed into Sub Base Platypus, a massive new foreshore walkway and parkland — and it's now open to the masses. The historic north shore site sits on Cammeraygal land and was once a gasworks facility for the region. As part of the war effort, the site became a torpedo factory in 1942 and later commissioned as the navy's submarine base in 1967 — named HMAS Platypus — which then closed back in 1998. What was once the submarine wharf has been rebuilt into an elevated water walkway that links the site to Kesterton Park (via Kiara Close) and theNorth Sydney Ferry Wharf. Alongside the water walkway is a recreation and barbecue area, plus a new submarine-themed playground. As a tribute to the site's history, the playground includes a model Oberon Submarine and periscopes, built by the Harbour Trust's Volunteer Restoration Team, which consists of over 50 volunteers with expertise in engineering, carpentry and electrical work. Stage one opened in May 2018, with further redevelopment and long-term upgrades planned for the site over the next three years. It is eventually planned to become a large-scale waterfront park, with the government having already invested nearly $70 million in the project. The second stage of Sub Base Platypus will include a mix of open areas and parkland, with the addition of plazas, courtyards and flexible re-use spaces. The former submarine workshop structures will soon be leased out as well, with tenants expected onsite throughout 2019. Updated: June 24, 2018.
How good at Pictionary would Sky Ferreira be? Would the doodles of Earl Sweatshirt be found in an art gallery? How would London Grammar go in a life drawing class? Sydney's FBi Radio intended to find out, by inviting a list of over 30 musicians to try their hand at a handdrawn masterpiece. Bringing back their wildly successful 'Brush With Fame' art auction, FBi asked a serious banquet of bands, rappers, ARIA-nominees, folksters, singers and beatmakers to create drawings on canvas especially for the station, ready for auction from 9pm Tuesday, November 25. All proceeds raise funds for the independent, not-for-profit, top notch station. Kudos to FBi for one of the best group show lineups around, y'ready? You (YOU) can own a handdrawn work by: Alt J, Ásgeir, Banks, Buck 65, Chali 2NA, Chet Faker, DARKSIDE, Dustin Tebutt, Earl Sweatshirt, Ears, El-P, Glass Animals, Holy Fuck, Ice Age, Four Tet, The Jezabels, Jon Hopkins, Killer Mike, Little Dragon, Little May, London Grammar, Lee Ranaldo, Megan Washington, Midlake, Mount Kimbie, Okkervil River, Phantogram, Phoenix, Sky Ferreira, Sly & Robbie, St Vincent, Veronica Falls, Warpaint. Phew. That's a bloody lineup. All works are on display over here. The online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay with bids starting at just AUD$50. Each piece comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity from FBi. The auction closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm (AEDT) and works will be shipped the following day — we're talking seriously perfect Christmas gifts right here. Here's a couple of our favourites in the bunch, that you'll have to furiously outbid us on. Again, the FBi 'Brush With Fame' online auction launches globally tonight at 9pm (AEDT) via eBay and closes on Monday December 2 at 9pm. Go! RUN!
If you're going to break a sweat, you might as well look damn good while doing it, right? Luxury brand Hermès agrees, of course, so it's hosting a super stylish pop-up gym at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion this weekend. From Friday, October 14–Sunday, October 16, HermèsFit invites fashionable fitness fiends to take part in the best-accessorised workout of their lives. While the pop-up's program of group workout classes has already been booked out solid, there are still plenty of other treats to check out during its stay. The chic space — decked out in the brand's signature orange hues — features a weights wall stacked with custom Hermès barbells, a juice bar, a boxing ring that doubles as a photobooth and even a round ping pong table where you can challenge your mates to a game. And chic statement accessories will be on show everywhere you look. What's more, HermèsFit is hosting a slew of after-hours fun across the weekend, with that central boxing ring transformed into a stage for free sets from the likes of Cub Sport, Dijok, Boy Soda and 1300. They'll kick off at 7pm on Friday, and from 5pm on the weekend. Images: Wes Nel
Update Tuesday, February 1: Josh and Julie Niland's Fish Butchery Waterloo is opening on Thursday, February 3. The venue will offer raw and dry-aged fish as part of its retail offering and a takeaway menu featuring yellowfin tuna belly pastrami sandwiches, murry cod souvlaki, tuna pie packs and smoked scallop banh mi. It'll be open 10am–7pm Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–6pm on Sundays. Three years after opening Fish Butchery in Paddington — and just a few months after launching new sustainable fish and chip shop Charcoal Fish in Rose Bay — Josh and Julie Niland are giving Sydneysiders another spot to pick up top-notch seafood. The pair has just signed the lease on a space at 965 Bourke Street, Waterloo, which is set to become home to Fish Butchery's second venue. Come mid-January, Fish Butchery Waterloo will be following in its sibling's footsteps. It'll also mark the Nilands' fourth venue overall, including their original venture Saint Peter. And, the Bourke Street spot will give acclaimed seafood chef Josh plenty of room to work with — 270 square metres, which is more than twice the size of Fish Butchery Paddington. The same no-waste approach to all things fish will obviously make the leap to the new venue, with the store's range set to span fresh seafood, fish charcuterie and frozen produce. After running Mr Niland at Home during lockdown, ready-to-cook fish pies, albacore lasagnes, yellowfin tuna koftas and yellowfin tuna burger patties will also be available. Fish Butchery Waterloo will serve up Australian oysters shucked to order at a central island counter, too, and fill its hot pie cabinet with grab-and-go swordfish bacon quiche lorraine, yellowfin tuna meat pies and Murray cod sausage rolls. And, among the takeaway and dine-in options, there'll be everything from swordfish tacos al pastor, tuna chorizo sandwiches and king prawn hot dogs to the Fish Butchery ploughman's lunch, double tuna cheeseburgers and a hot smoked kingfish reuben sandwich. With such a hefty site to play with, the couple will also use the extra space for Josh's development work — to come up with even more must-try fish dishes — as well as for training and fish storage. "We want to create a space where we can make greater use of the opportunities within each fish. By centralising our fish purchasing, storage and preparation to one location, we will be able to ensure that every part of the fish is utilised across our venues to its maximum potential," the couple said in a statement. "Custom-built dry ageing cool rooms will condition fish for Saint Peter, Charcoal Fish, Fish Butchery Paddington and Fish Butchery Waterloo and two large marble workbenches in the centre of the room will provide a work area for our fish butchers — bringing visibility and theatre to the often behind the scenes processes of Fish Butchery," they continued. Fish Butchery Waterloo will open at 965 Bourke Street, Waterloo, sometime in mid-January — with an exact launch date yet to be revealed. We'll update you with further details when they're announced. Images: Fish Butchery Paddington.
By the time it is completed in 2013 the 104-story One World Trade Center, more simply known as 1 WTC and formerly known as the Freedom Tower, will be the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the third-tallest building in the world by pinnacle height. Last week the Port Authority gave a press tour of the World Trade Center site, but the lucky (assuming none of them suffer from acrophobia) folk at the Architect’s Newspaper were granted access all the way up to the vertigo-inducing 103rd floor of the lofty edifice. Before that date it was only construction workers who had taken in the incredible views of New York granted by this vantage point. These include the 9/11 memorial site, the tower, about a hundred inner-city rooftops and panoramic sights encompassing parts of all five boroughs. Fortunately those given the opportunity to ride a rickety metal elevator up 103 floors managed to keep their cool long enough to snap a few hundred photos, the majority of which have been posted up on the Architect’s Newspaper blog. Wait until your breakfast is sufficiently settled then browse through our own curated selection of images below. There’s no workers shouting, metal clanging or Queen’s “We Will Rock You” playing from a radio (apparently all aspects of the tour IRL) but it’s still pretty impressive. The core at the 103rd floor. Memorial in foreground with loading dock. 103rd ledge. Workers guide container. Manhattan. Path station. Warren Street from the 103rd floor. via Curbed NY; photos by Tom Stoelker at AN blog
From FernGully: the Last Rainforest to Moana — and including everything from Studio Ghibli's Pom Poko and Princess Mononoke to Pixar's Wall-E, too — many an animated movie has combined stunning frames with a stirring message about the environment. Add new Irish film Wolfwalkers to the list, with the gorgeous feature heading to Apple TV+ this year and likely to become your next favourite animated flick. Story-wise, the film follows a young wannabe hunter by the name of Robyn Goodfellowe (voiced by Honor Kneafsey). In a tale set centuries ago, she moves to Ireland with her father Bill (Sean Bean) when he's hired to eradicate the last wolf pack lurking in the woods. The locals, as overseen by an English Lord Protector (Simon McBurney), want to wipe out the wolves so that they can tear down the forest in the name of progress. But, after sneaking out to go exploring, Robyn befriends a girl called Mebh (Eva Whittaker) who just might be a member of a mythical tribe that's able to shapeshift into wolves while they're dreaming. As well as a rousing eco-conscious narrative, Wolfwalkers serves up distinctive, eye-catching animation — as its first teaser trailer makes plain. Expect earthy, natural colours, with greens, browns, oranges and yellows dancing across the screen. Expect a line-heavy animation style, too, which is almost reminiscent of woodblock prints. None of the above should come as a surprise given the film's roster of talent — including Tomm Moore, director of Oscar-nominated and equally stunning duo The Secret of Kells and Song of the Sea. He co-directs with a veteran of both movies, with Ross Stewart working as the art director of the former and a concept artist on the latter. Wolfwalkers is also the latest feature produced by the Kilkenny-based Cartoon Saloon, which also has the similarly Academy Award-nominated The Breadwinner on its resume. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival this month, just when Wolfwalkers will hit Apple TV+ is yet to be revealed, other than it'll drop sometime later in 2020. And, obviously, whether Game of Thrones star Bean will survive in his latest role is something that you'll only find out by watching. Check out the teaser trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj72cf3x5KM&feature=youtu.be Wolfwalkers is set to hit Apple TV+ sometime later in 2020 — we'll update you with an exact release date when one is announced.
If there's been a big, White Night-shaped hole in your social calendar since the famed Melbourne after-hours fiesta wrapped up its last edition in February 2018, you'll be happy to know it's making a return this August. Just be prepared for a very different experience, as the immersive festival makes some serious changes to its programming and farewells part of the late-night fun. As well as making the move from summer to the deep of winter, White Night Reimagined has swapped its previous one-night format for an expanded three-night affair. Interestingly, it's also scrapped the all-nighter aspect in the process. Instead of the usual 7pm–7am program, which has been in place since the festival's inaugural 2013 edition, White Night is this year running from 7pm until midnight on Thursday, August 22, and again on Friday, August 23, followed by a 7pm until 2am session on Saturday, August 24. The new curfew means punters will no longer get to experience what some might argue is one of White Night's biggest pulls — the adventure of roaming around town soaking up art and installations, right through until the wee hours. Although, frosty August probably isn't the best time of year for pre-sunrise wanderings, anyway. The new-format event has also expanded in scope, held across three key precincts with each boasting its own distinct theme. Treasury Gardens will take the form of the 'Sensory Realm', showcasing dazzling projections, lighting and audio installations, and interactive artworks inspired by the five senses. Here, you'll find British artist Michael Pinsky's immersive Pollution Pods, which represented the different environments of global cities; a musical and calming SongCloud; a colourful light and audiovisual installation called Cluster; as well as a giant floating Cocoon made from 1000 lights tied together by ropes. Carlton Gardens will be transformed into the mystical 'Spiritual Realm', featuring a huge ten-metre lion puppet by Melbourne artist Joe Blanck, along with illuminations sharing the stories of Indigenous Australia. And the 'Physical Realm' descends on Birrarung Marr, showcasing the Aussie debut of internationally acclaimed street theatre performance Globe, from a troupe of 41 acrobats, aerialists, singers and actors. Other famed Melbourne spots coming to the party include the Melbourne Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria and the State Library Victoria, all hosting their own programs of art, food and music. The rest of White Night Reimagined's extended program, including the music component, is set to be revealed in the coming weeks. Starting from 2020, White Night will also form part of a new and bigger winter festival, in conjunction with the Melbourne International Arts Festival (MIAF).
Take me with you, indeed: whether you're a Prince fan, a Purple Rain obsessive or both, you can now follow in the musician and the film's footsteps by sleeping in the house from the iconic movie. This is the actual abode from the inimitable flick, newly restored and decked out in purple aplenty. You'll slumber in The Kid's bedroom, hear rare Prince tracks, and go crazy with love for the picture and the late, great artist behind it, of course. Back in May, Airbnb announced that it was doing things a little differently in 2024 when it comes to its pop culture-themed stays. The accommodation platform is no stranger to giving travellers once-in-a-lifetime vacation options — see: Shrek's swamp, Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse, the Ted Lasso pub, the Moulin Rouge! windmill and Hobbiton, to name just a few — which it previously announced at random, with no advance warning. Now, however, it has created the Airbnb Icons category, grouping them all together. The company also revealed at the time that Prince's Purple Rain mansion was one of the many spots on the way. As a result, you might've heard about this Minneapolis listing before — but it's only about to become available now. Will you find out what it sounds like when doves cry if you nab a one-night stay here? You'll need to try to score a reservation between 11pm AEST on Wednesday, October 2–4.59pm AEST on Monday, October 7, 2024 for a stay between Saturday, October 26–Saturday, December 14, 2024. There's 25 stays on offer, each for up to four guest at a time. The booking isn't free, but only costs $7 per person because that was Prince's favourite number. That price only covers the stay itself. To get there and back, you'll be paying separately and organising your travel yourself. And your hosts, because Airbnb always gets someone pivotal involved? For this listing, it's Wendy and Lisa — aka of Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman — who were part of Prince's band The Revolution. "We were lucky enough to be a part of the music scene in Minneapolis during such a pivotal era for rock music, playing with Prince in one of the most successful bands of our generation and starring alongside him in the Purple Rain film," said Wendy and Lisa. "The Purple Rain house stands as a tribute to our dear friend Prince, the timeless character he brought to life and the lasting impact he continues to have. We hope the space gives fans a glimpse into the eclectic world Prince created, and visitors walk away feeling a little bit closer to him as an artist and person." This is what it looks like: guests can get excited about staying in a spot with purple velvet wallpaper; a spa with a claw-foot bath and stained-glass windows (and purple robes, naturally) that's decorated to resemble the 'When Doves Cry' music video; and a music lounge with a piano, drums and guitar, plus instructions on how to play the chorus to 'Purple Rain' with pre-recorded vocals from The Kid. There's also a closet filled with Prince outfits, all behind glass — and more 80s-inspired threads, not worn by the man himself, that you can pop on. When it's time for bed, you will indeed feel like you've stepped into Purple Rain (although the personal tape collection with one of Prince's demo recordings mixes the movie with reality). Still on tunes, there's a vintage 80s stereo downstairs featuring songs that inspired The Kid — and you can listen to a personal commentary by scanning QR codes. You can also consider this a Prince scavenger hunt, in a way, thanks to a secret space that you need to find. It's filled with treasures — and you'll want to be paying attention to the fake vinyl album. In the past, Airbnb has also featured the Bluey house, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop, the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera and a Christina Aguilera-hosted two-night Las Vegas stay. Its Airbnb Icons has also made sleeping at the Up house, Inside Out 2's headquarters, the X-Mansion from X-Men '97 and the Ferrari Museum a reality, as well as stays hosted by Doja Cat, Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor and Kevin Hart. For more information about the Purple Rain house on Airbnb, or to book from 11pm AEST on Wednesday, October 2–4.59pm AEST on Monday, October 7, 2024 for a stay between Saturday, October 26–Saturday, December 14, 2024, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Eric Ogden. 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.
Shipwrecks, breaching whales, windswept clifftops and seemingly endless swathes of national park — a visit to a lighthouse often feels like a journey into the 19th-century, when lonely lightkeepers spent their days and nights looking out to sea, ensuring sailors and their cargo didn't come a-cropper on hidden rocks and jagged headlands. Since 1995, all of Australia's lighthouses have operated without keepers (the last to go was Tassie's Maatsuyker Island's), which means you can now sleep over in their former cottages built, mostly, in the late 19th-century. Here, we take a look at five spectacular lighthouses on the NSW coast, from north to south. Get ready to loll about in four-poster beds, spend hours and hours mesmerised by the ocean, swim at empty beaches and take long coastal walks. Fair warning: many of these beauties book out weeks, or even months, in advance, so don't dilly-dally, especially if you're keen to get away before the warm weather skedaddles. [caption id="attachment_655268" align="alignnone" width="1920"] National Parks NSW.[/caption] CAPE BYRON LIGHTHOUSE, CAPE BYRON STATE CONSERVATION AREA Welcome to Australia's easternmost point and its most powerful lighthouse. Cape Byron Light's blinding beams have been guiding ships to safety since 1901 and these days, half-a-million visitors swing by each year, many arriving on foot from Byron Bay along a stunning, dedicated walking track. Stay in one of the lightkeepers' cottages and you'll be among the first to see the sunrise over Australia, without abandoning the comfort of your bed. The light-filled dwellings have been transformed into cosy accommodation, with a design aesthetic that reflects their turn-of-the-century origins. [caption id="attachment_655277" align="alignnone" width="1920"] National Parks NSW.[/caption] SMOKY CAPE, HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK While Cape Byron Lighthouse represents the most easterly shining light in Australia, Smoky Cape on the mid-North Coast ranks in as the highest. Get ready for some dizzying views from 140 metres above the sea and luxe accommodation in the lightkeepers' cottages, built in 1891. Think four-poster beds and period furniture, as well as mod cons, including TVs, renovated kitchens and washing machines. When you need a break from staring out at the ocean, have a wander around Hat Head National Park, which is dotted with pretty swimming beaches and easy-going bush walks. [caption id="attachment_655603" align="alignnone" width="1920"] National Parks NSW.[/caption] SUGARLOAF POINT LIGHTHOUSE, SEAL ROCKS Since 1875, this lighthouse has been warning seafarers of Seal Rocks, a hazardous rock formation that tore many a ship apart with a single blow. Situated on dramatic Sugar Loaf Point, backdropped by Myall Lakes National Park, the site gives you incredible ocean views towards Crowdy Head in the north and as far as Port Stephens in the south. Choose from three cottages: a three-bedroom residence that once belonged to the head keeper and two more humble two-bedroom dwellings, which the assistant keepers called home. In between watching out for ships, keep an eye out for whales, go swimming in crystal clear water and conquer the Treachery Headland Walk. [caption id="attachment_655363" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Saw.[/caption] MONTAGUE ISLAND HEAD LIGHTHOUSE, MONTAGUE ISLAND NATURE RESERVE This stay gives you not only a lighthouse but an island, too. Montague lies nine kilometres off Narooma, on the Far South Coast. It's a nature reserve, so you can expect to meet hundreds of seals and more than 90 species of birds. What's more, the watery views are 360 degrees, foregrounded by the island's grassy slopes and pristine bays. If you're travelling with a crew, you're in luck: there's room for 12 in the head keeper's cottage and eight in the assistant keeper's. Take a tour, which gives you some insight into Montague's history, and come evening, join the ranger on the daily little penguin count. Keep in mind that this lighthouse stay is for the more adventurous — those ready to take a boat trip across from Narooma, then climb the island ladder and up a steep hill upon arrival. Access to and from the island can be cut off due to sea and swell so make sure you come well prepared. GREEN CAPE LIGHTHOUSE, BEN BOYD NATIONAL PARK Found at the end of a winding dirt road, overlooking treacherous Disaster Bay, Green Cape is the most remote lighthouse on the list. If your aim is to travel backwards in time, make this one your choice. The cosy keepers' quarters come with open gas 'fireplaces', plus a clawfoot bath found in one of the cottages, and between June and November, the whale show can be pretty impressive — especially from September to November when the whales head south with their young. When you're not kicking back and relaxing, take a walk through the rugged, invigorating wilderness of Ben Boyd National Park and make sure you take the lighthouse tour: the views from the top are extraordinary. Make sure you plan ahead for your lighthouse stay to ensure you can book accommodation. Find and book lighthouse accommodation here. For more inspiration to get outside and explore, visit National Parks NSW and check out their Instagram @nswnationalparks.
Sydney's largest Halloween celebration, Halloscream, is back, and it's set to be even more terrifying than ever. This October, Luna Park will transform into a terrifying realm of nightmares with new scary attractions, spine-chilling live performances and unlimited rides. Punters have the choice of two ticket options: general admission and the VIP ticket. Both have unlimited access to Luna Park's rides, while VIP ticket holders have dedicated access to Round & Round and Red Light, Green Light from the highly anticipated Squid Game: The Experience. The ticket also includes food and a merchandise discount. Back again this year is The Carnival Breath, plunging guests into a sideshow from hell. Here, nightmare-inducing clowns and creepy performers lurk in the shadows, waiting for unsuspecting victims. Plus, a brand-new addition to this year's stacked lineup of scares is Crystal Ward, a terrifying maze set within the heritage-listed Crystal Palace. Wander through an abandoned hospital ward with secret experiments still unfolding behind locked doors, so make sure to hold on tight to your loved ones. Throughout the night, you'll also encounter roaming entertainers to keep you occupied. Of course, you can always take breaks from the spooktacular and get your heart racing in a different way on any of Luna Park's long-standing rides. Don't forget to grab a bite to eat, too, with Halloween-themed food and drinks to keep you satiated. Halloscream runs from Thursday, October 30 to November 1, with tickets now available on the Luna Park website. General admission tickets are $110, with VIP tickets available for $150.
Being a Barbie girl in a Barbie world wasn't just a 2023 trend, back when Greta Gerwig's (Little Women) Margot Robbie (Asteroid City)-starring — and Oscar-nominated — film became one of the biggest and pinkest movies to ever hit cinemas. The 2025 way to get your Barbiecore fix Down Under from late June through till summer 2026: by enjoying ice cream floats served in a pink Barbie convertible car at the Malibu Barbie Cafe, plus sipping fairy floss-topped cocktails at the Ken Kabana bar, all at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne. The Malibu Barbie Cafe has been popping up across the US, with New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Austin and Houston all welcoming the venue. From Friday, June 27, 2025, it'll next make its first-ever appearance in Australia. This is also the cafe's debut stop beyond America — as well as Melbourne's second temporary big-name pop culture-themed addition in the same month, after Melbourne Museum's Star Wars Galactic Cafe opened its doors in early June. Pink hues? Beachy decor? Kicking it back to the 1970s, when Malibu Barbie initially debuted, at the onsite watering hole? A rollerskating rink lined by artwork of palm trees? A life-sized Barbie box? An installation that celebrates how Barbie as a brand has changed over the years? That's all on offer at the Malibu Barbie Cafe. So is merchandise that you won't find anywhere else, if you need a memento from your visit — although, with that in mind, we're sure that you'll fill your phone with plenty of photos. Ken's job isn't just beach here, given that his name adorns the cocktail-slinging upstairs bar in the two-storey site. On the drinks menu: that gin and lemonade concoction with spun sugar on top; themed takes on mojitos, margaritas, cosmopolitans, espresso martinis and old fashioneds; and more. If you're keen on a booze-free version, some of the tipples are available as mocktails. There's also a snack range, including fries with pink mayo, prawn cocktails, sushi and baked brie. Does putting your skates on appeal? You'll find that on the second level, too. Downstairs, Malibu Barbie Cafe's menu is an all-ages-friendly affair, with that ice cream float just one option. Sticking with sweets means choosing from doughnuts, pink cookies, cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, fruit and marshmallows. If you can't decide, the dessert sampler dishes up a mix of picks on a Barbie boat for between four and eight people. Savoury dishes span the same small bites as at the Ken Kabana, plus burgers, poke, garlic prawn linguine, beer-battered fish tacos, club sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac 'n' cheese and salads. Or, tuck into avocado toast, açai bowls, bacon and eggs, parfait or pancakes from the all-day brunch selection. Then, to drink, milkshakes, pink lemonade and pink lattes are among the options. If you're thinking "come on Barbie, let's go party", party packages are indeed a feature — including three-hour adults-only private-dining experiences from 6.30pm Thursday–Sunday. "We're delighted to partner with Bucket Listers and Chadstone, in collaboration with Mattel, to bring the Malibu Barbie Cafe to Melbourne," said Matt Gudinski, Chief Executive of The Mushroom Group, which is helping to share the Barbie fun with Australia. "At The Mushroom Group, we're always exploring new immersive live experiences and working with the world's biggest brands — few are as iconic as Barbie." Find Mattel's Malibu Barbie Cafe at The Social Quarter at Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road, Malvern East, Melbourne, from Friday, June 27, 2025–summer 2026. Head to the cafe's website for more details.
The fact that Westpac Openair Cinema plays films is right there in its name, but movies aren't the only reason to stop by. Almost anything can grace the towering screen at Mrs Macquaries Point each summer, backdropped by spectacular panoramic views, and it'd be worth a visit. But this outdoor spot to see a flick doesn't ever slouch when it comes to its movie picks. Fresh from announcing its 2024 dates — aka Wednesday, January 10—Tuesday, February 20 — Westpac Openair Cinema has now revealed the first three films that are on the program for its upcoming season. The full lineup will be unveiled on Monday, November 27, but for now an impressive trio of titles has been locked in: Ferrari, Next Goal Wins and Poor Things. Michael Mann hasn't had a movie flicker across the big screen since 2015's Blackhat, so the fact that that's changing with a picture that also gives the world Adam Driver (65) as a race car driver-turned-sports car entrepreneur — that'd be Ferrari — is big news. At Westpac Openair Cinema, you'll be able to see it on a particularly hefty screen. With Next Goal Wins, audiences can check out Taika Waititi's new movie, which is a comedy based on the 2014 documentary of the same name. The details might ring a bell if you're a fan of soccer and you remember the American Samoan team's big 2001 defeat. Competing against Australia in a qualifying match two decades back, the squad lost 31–0. Cue the hiring of Dutch American coach Thomas Rongen, who Michael Fassbender (The Killer) plays in Waititi's movie. As for Poor Things, it gets Emma Stone (Cruella) reuniting with Greek Weird Wave director Yorgos Lanthimos after 2018's excellent The Favourite, all for a spin on Frankenstein. The film adapts Alasdair Grey's 1992 award-winning novel, but the parallels with Mary Shelley's mother-of-all horror greats are as obvious as a bolt of lightning. The focus: Bella Baxter, a woman resurrected by an unorthodox scientist, distinctive in her mannerisms afterwards and eager to learn about a world that isn't quite sure how to react. As for what else might pop up at the beloved openair picture palace with a vista over the city, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, the team behind the event has posted on social media about Barbie, Oppenheimer and Past Lives, so fingers crossed that they make the cut when the complete lineup drops. Cross your toes as well if you'd love a Barbenheimer double. The Westpac Openair Cinema crew has also mentioned a few titles that it's still thinking about from its 2023 run, which you could take as a hint. On the list: Tár, Elvis, Jackie Brown and the OG Top Gun. [caption id="attachment_700088" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Westpac OpenAir Sydney[/caption] The event's array of dining experiences hasn't been announced as yet, including whether if Kitchen by Mike will be behind the cinema's meals again. As happens every year, tickets are likely to go quickly when they go on sale on Monday, December 11. Across the summer of 2018–19, more than 40,000 tickets sold within the first two days of pre-sale, for instance — so put it in your diary ASAP. [caption id="attachment_648330" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fiora Sacco[/caption] Westpac Openair 2024 runs from Wednesday, January 10—Tuesday, February 20. The program will be announced on Monday, November 27, with tickets on sale on Monday, December 11 — check back here then for further details. Top image: Andrew Maccoll.
As part of the flurry of streaming services always competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic as a pay-per-view platform. The service runs all year round, of course, but it goes the extra mile for National Reconciliation Week, which is when it hosts the First Nations Film Festival (previously known as the Virtual Indigenous Film Festival). In 2023, that event will take place between Tuesday, May 30–Saturday, June 3, all solely online. The returning fest will focus on something different on each of the five days, starting with the Richard Bell-focused documentary You Can Go Now, then moving onto documentaries Alick and Albert and The Lake of Scars. There's also shorts by up-and-coming First Nations talent, plus anthology feature We Are Still Here as the fest's big finale. At this at-home screen celebration, you'll enjoy watching your way through an array of Aussie content focused on Indigenous stories, spanning both dramas and documentaries — and exploring race relations in the process. Viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, or buy an all-access pass to tune into everything. Movies screen at set times, running twice each day: at 1pm and 7pm AEST.
Dessert king Reynold Poernomo is expanding his sugary empire, with the former MasterChef contestant and co-owner of Chippendale's KOI Dessert Bar opening a second location on the other side of town. KOI Ryde will sling the same decadent creations Poernomo's fans have come to expect, while also offering cooking classes with some of Sydney's best dessert chefs. The Ryde dessert bar will be run by Reynold along with his mother Ike and his brothers Ronald and Arnold, but it won't be a carbon copy of the Chippendale venue. Although it will function as a cafe where you can eat your cake straight out of the cabinet, the team hopes to also introduce a brand new menu offering (brunch is on the cards) and even monthly chef's table dinners. The space will also function as the production facility for all the cakes and pastries sold at both KOI locations and a masterclass kitchen, which will host classes by Sydney's best bakers, along with Poernomo himself. As for what you'll be scoffing on, expect KOI staples including the bright green mango yuzu made with mango mousse, yuzu curd and almond sable, and the coconut kalamansi featuring coconut mousse, white cheese, kalamansi (like a Filipino lime) curd and chocolate sable.
People jump up and down a lot in Nancy Meyers movies. Her heightened, playful worlds of wealthy white characters may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Meyers has established herself as a bit of a champion for the Baby boomers. Egad! They still have sex, get drunk and make bad decisions! Meyers’ latest offering almost feels like a remake of Something’s Gotta Give, but the Alec Baldwin/Meryl Streep/Steve Martin love triangle is much more successful than her previous attempt with Jack Nicholson/Diane Keaton/Keanu Reeves. Let’s face it, many would pay to see Streep recite the alphabet, let alone delight in her reapplying her Julie & Julia cooking skills to mouthwatering effect, whilst playing Jane, a confused divorcee rekindling the relationship with her ex some 10 years after the nasty split. She and Baldwin spark off each other nicely, and Martin does well playing the straight man and her besotted architect. Though sugary sweet, there’s a lot to giggle about in this film, as well as a few home truths. Meyers strikes a much better balance this time around, so while having “an ex with benefits†leads to much hilarity, she also shows that a divorced family isn’t anything to jump up and down about. https://youtube.com/watch?v=FtbsGSzTOyI
What's in a name? The work of theatre company subtlenuance is full of subtle nuances, but it's their bold strokes that have earned them high standing in the Sydney indie scene. Not only do they produce solely new works, they've stretched the medium through the wine-tasting/theatre hit Blind Tasting, the innovatively developed Political Hearts of Children and now Rocket Man, a smorgasbord of self-referentiality Joss Whedon would be in awe of. This title, too, is one not to accept on surface value. Neil (Daniel Hunter) is an astronaut — or so he's told the woman he hooked up with last night, Veronica (Sylvia Keays). Rockets soar. They also explode. When the new lovers wake up in the morning, he's keen to prolong their playful encounter, and she is too — though even more than that, she wants to get to her morning appointment, an important audition with the Sydney Theatre Company. With increasing persistence, he starts ragging on her for her choice of career. It's an odd move to make on a woman you like, but as becomes clear, Neil has bigger issues than just the minimalistic vs literal staging debate. Dispersing the tension between Neil and Veronica is her housemate, Claudia (Alyssan Russell), not shy of barging into a room, and Claudia's boyfriend, Justin (Stephen Wilkinson), an easygoing guy sheltering one piece of vital information. The way playwright and director Paul Gilchrist manages the tension and spark between the four characters is masterful and fun to watch. No one will love Rocket Man more than the theatre crowd. Some of the best jokes rely on industry knowledge, as do some of the heaviest questions. (At one point, character Veronica actually references another subtlenuance production that actor Sylvia is in. Record!) If Gilchrist's goal, however, is to hold the moral fundamentals of theatre up to the light, he doesn't quite succeed, because it's impossible to side with the volatile Neil. There's a solid wall of ad hominem only the fittest logician can cross. Rocket Man is actually at its most successful as a delicate character dramedy, which is what separates it from last year's serving of sizzling theatre talk, I Want to Sleep with Tom Stoppard. Its characters are whole, affectionately shaded and genuine in a way that outshines the irony. Performances are sensational. The whole thing is, contrary to Neil's binary critique of indie theatre, neither "underdeveloped nor overwritten". (Though I'm only begrudgingly accepting that the central mystery to my eyes — how does Neil know so much about an art form he detests — wasn't answered. I accept it because I believe, from the context, that Gilchrist does know.) One final kudos must go to designer Rachel Scane; subtlenuance have gone for a very literal staging in creating Veronica's messy bedroom. Styling something to look so unstyled is a triumph.
Dinner and a show: a classic formula for a night out in the big city for a reason. You get your fix of culture, have your horizons broadened and get your stomach filled in one after-hours excursion. If you're keen to fill your 2024 calendar with this kind of action, start with a subscription to Griffin Theatre Company's 2024 Season. Next year might be Griffin's biggest year yet, with a facelift slated for its iconic SBW Stables Theatre to increase capacity and accessibility and allow Griffin to keep doing what it does best — showcasing exciting and innovative Australian voices — for decades to come. Just like your loo paper or wine subscription, Griffin's will get you a bunch of perks, including up to 20% off ticket prices. Now the cultural side of your calendar is sorted, let's focus on the food. We've devised dinner and show duos based on Griffin's exciting 2024 lineup. Think of it like a wine pairing — the restaurant experience highlights the finer points of unparalleled storytelling and vice versa. 'THE LEWIS TRILOGY' — THE OLD FITZROY HOTEL With The Lewis Trilogy, you can experience a trifecta of plays by esteemed dramatist Louis Nowra. The pieces follow the story of protagonist Lewis through his coming-of-age as a teenager in Melbourne (Summer of the Aliens) to his post-university stint directing a production of Così fan tutte in a mental hospital (Così) and, finally, his middle-age spinning yarns in a historic pub (This Much is True). You can see the plays as individual performances over three weeknights or, on Saturdays and Sundays, you can take in the whole trilogy in a day, with the same cast featuring throughout. If you opt for the weekend marathon, there's a break for dinner after Così, and what better place to head for a feed than the pub that inspired the final act — The Old Fitzroy in Woolloomooloo? It's a 150-year-old pub with a touch of the glamour of theatreland, including portraits of playwrights adorning the walls. The hearty bistro menu comes courtesy of James MacDonald, who's worked in Michelin-starred restaurants throughout Europe. You'll know you'll be heading back to Griffin satisfied before finishing this spell-binding series of performances. 'SWIM' — BUSH SYDNEY The first work to be performed away from the Stables while it undergoes redevelopment is Mununjali poet Ellen van Neerven's stage debut, swim. Since most people live relatively close to the coast in Australia, swimming is part of our national identity. Van Neerven's story focuses on the municipal pool rather than the ocean, but it's about more than just water — it's a tale of strength, gender identity and family. swim is being performed at Carriageworks throughout its July run, meaning you're in pole position for the best food Redfern offers. You can't go wrong with Bush, the restaurant that opened in 2019 with its focus on promoting native produce and using invasive species in its cuisine. Both swim and Bush sensitively consider the environment around us, and Bush's menu featuring saltbush, Illawarra plum and Warrigal greens is an excellent accompaniment to the play's powerful message. 'FLAT EARTHERS: THE MUSICAL' — BAR PLANET Just the title alone is enough to make you want to go and see Flat Earthers: The Musical, right? If you still need some convincing, this story is about two women who meet online and fall in love. Everything is going as well as can be until it's revealed they don't have the same beliefs about, well, what shape the world is. Cue pandemonium as pop bangers soundtrack the couple's descent into a conspiracy theory rabbit hole as they try to find what connects them rather than divides them. A chaotic, queer spectacular that's as iconic as it is tongue-in-cheek. And speaking of tongue-in-cheek, go and hit up Bar Planet afterwards (assuming you're Team Globe Earth rather than Team Flat Earth). Here, you can discuss what you've just seen and heard in an environment brimming with cosmic décor and friendly faces. Bar Planet might not do its own food — it has a partnership with Turkish restaurant Saray down the road — but the martinis are genuinely out of this world. 'JAILBABY' — TWO GOOD CO CAFE Back by public demand, Suzie Miller's Jailbaby returns to the Stables in January for a limited run. A thematic follow-up to the enormously successful Prima Facie, Jailbaby shines a light on the criminal justice system in an unflinching portrayal of one young man's harrowing experience in prison. Andrea James directs Lucia Mastrantone, Anthony Taufa and Anthony Yangoyan in a play described as "Miller's writing at its most potent." This experience shows the audience what can happen when society fails vulnerable individuals, so a meal earlier in the day at Two Good Co Cafe in Yirranma Place is a good fit. Two Good Co's mission is to help the women who need it most by providing employment, safe spaces and community initiatives. The Yirranma Place cafe focuses on seasonal produce and local suppliers and has partnerships with social enterprises such as The Bread & Butter Project, T Totaler and Kua Coffee. There are also plenty of gifts and products to purchase, so you can do even more good while you feel good and eat well. 'GOLDEN BLOOD' — HARRY'S SINGAPORE CHLLI CRAB Despite featuring only two performers, Merlynn Tong's Golden Blood is broad and ambitious in scope. Tong tells the story of a recently bereaved brother and sister battling against the odds, living in poverty among the high-rollers of the Singapore CBD, and their entanglements with the criminal underworld. Golden Blood premiered at the SBW Stables Theatre in 2022, and its 2024 run is taking place at Sydney Theatre Company. After immersing yourself in the neon jungle of everyday Singaporean life, a meal at Harry's Singapore Chilli Crab will round the evening off perfectly. An institution for over four decades, Harry's boasts a menu that is like a love letter to the Singaporean staple, with crab cooked every way you can think of, as well as a glut of other seafood options. Griffin Theatre Company's 2024 Season begins on Thursday, January 4 and runs until Saturday, November 9. For more information and to start your subscription, visit the website.
There are few areas on earth that Google Street View can't venture — and now one place in space as well. In the latest addition to their popular Google Maps feature, the technology giant has added the International Space Station to its list of destinations. Clearly charting the planet humanity walks on just wasn't enough. Launched on the 48th anniversary of the first manned moon landing, the virtual leap for mankind lets users explore all 15 of the ISS's interconnected modules, which orbit the planet more than 400 kilometres above the surface. From peering through the observational node to entering the airlock, pretending that you're living out your science-fiction dreams — and experiencing what it's like to literally look down on the rest of us, too — is now as easy as moving your cursor and clicking your mouse. Obviously, you can't send Google's Street View car fleet into space, so the company worked with NASA bases and ISS astronauts to capture imagery from the inside the structure. DSLR cameras and equipment already on board were used to collect pictures in gravity-free conditions. The resulting snaps of the habitable artificial satellite were then sent back down to earth, stitched together and turned into panoramic shots. If that sounds a little tricky, that's because it was. As European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Pesquet explains in a blog post for Google, "there are a lot of obstacles up there, and we had limited time to capture the imagery, so we had to be confident that our approach would work." Still, for anyone who has ever wanted to take a trip into space — but found costs, logistics, training and a whole long list of other factors getting in their way — it was worth it. Explore the International Space Station on Google Maps. Via The Verge. Image: Google Maps.
Direct flights from Australia's east coast to New York — and London, too — are on their way, with Qantas committing to make the massive trips from 2025. But first, the Aussie airline is heading non-stop from Auckland to the Big Apple. The carrier has announced two pieces of exciting news for travellers Down Under, both of which might change your holiday plans from 2023 onwards. Firstly, it's starting those direct Auckland–New York routes, kicking off on June 14. Secondly, it's recommencing flying to NY in general, including a new Sydney–Auckland–New York flight. Initially, the new service will run three days a week, starting in Sydney before soaring non-stop from NZ to NY. The latter part will take a whopping 16 hours, which is slightly shorter than the 17-hour direct Perth–London route that first hit the air back in 2018, but will still be a mammoth undertaking. Yes, time feels like it means nothing when you're on one plane for that long. Yes, if you're keen on as few stopovers as possible whenever you're jetting around the world, that hefty non-stop leg is worth it. When Qantas returns to NY for the first time in three years due to the pandemic, travellers will be flying on Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the airline taking delivery of three new aircraft in 2023. If you now know what you're doing next winter — enjoying a hot NY summer, obviously — the Sydney–Auckland–New York flights have just gone on sale today, Thursday, August 25. The airline will also increase its daily services from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne to Auckland from six to 11 when the new route commences, to help Aussies can take advantage of it. In flying direct from NZ to NYC, Qantas follows in the footsteps of Air New Zealand, which announced its plans back in 2019 and will start the route in September 2022. Qantas will restart flying to New York via its new Sydney–Auckland–New York route from June 14, 2023. For more information or to make a booking, head to the airline's website.
Let there be rock indeed: when AC/DC announced their first Australian tour in a decade, it was always going to be popular. It should come as no surprise, then, that extra gigs have been added now that tickets have gone on sale. Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne have all scored additional shows, with the band now playing two concerts in each of the New South Wales, Queensland and Victorian capitals. Since 2015, it's been a long wait for Aussie fans if you want to rock 'n' roll with AC/DC live, but the group's Power Up tour will see Brian Johnson, Angus Young and company performing at local stadiums in November and December 2025. With the just-announced extra gigs, Melbourne is getting thunderstruck at the MCG on Wednesday, November 12 and Sunday, November 16; Sydney at Accor Stadium on Friday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 25; Adelaide at the bp Adelaide Grand Final on Sunday, November 30; Perth at Optus Stadium on Thursday, December 4; and Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday, December 14 and Thursday, December 18. For this run of dates, Amyl and The Sniffers are onboard in support to make these massive Aussie concerts even more so, and to give attendees a taste of two different generations of Aussie rockstars. Playing Sydney isn't just part of a fitting homecoming for AC/DC, but comes more than half a century since the band played their first-ever show in the Harbour City. Their 2025 gig will be just over a month and a half short of 52 years since that 1973 debut. Power Up is also the name of the group's 2020 album, their most-recent record — which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, made multiple best-of lists for that year and scored Grammy nominations. For those about to rock, AC/DC's high-voltage current set list spans their entire career, however, including everything from 'If You Want Blood (You've Got It)', 'Back in Black' and 'Hells Bells' to 'Highway to Hell', 'Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap' and 'You Shook Me All Night Long'. So far, the Power Up tour has played Europe and North America, selling more than two-million tickets across 24 shows in the former and notching up ten soldout gigs in the latter. AC/DC will be back in Europe, hitting the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Spain, Italy, Estonia, Sweden, Norway, France and Scotland, before their Aussie dates. AC/DC Power Up 2025 Australian Tour Wednesday, November 12 + Sunday, November 16 — Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Friday, November 21 + Tuesday, November 25 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Sunday, November 30 — bp Adelaide Grand Final, Adelaide Thursday, December 4 — Optus Stadium, Perth Sunday, December 14 + Thursday, December 18 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane AC/DC are touring Australia in November and December 2025, with tickets on sale from Thursday, June 26, 2025. Head to the tour website for further details. Images: Christie Goodwin.
Quiet and understated, Adelaide isn't always easy to navigate if you're a tourist. So much of the good (and there is a lot of good) is hidden in plain sight. That's where it helps to have some insider advice. We've teamed up with Pullman Hotels and Resorts to bring you a guide to Adelaide's less obvious but obviously fabulous experiences. Putting our heads together with Pullman Adelaide's chief concierge Enrico Angelletti, we've curated a list of must-dos that will leave you wanting more of Adelaide — from new art spaces to old smelly cheese shops, and from pizzeria nightclubs to tranquil gardens. Enrico (aka Ric) has been in the hotel business for nearly 38 years, and is looked up to by junior staff for his passion and expertise for helping guests find extraordinary experiences in Adelaide. His food knowledge is particularly strong — it comes at least in part from his Italian background. Check out the rest of our Explore More content series to hone your itinerary for some of Australia's best holiday destinations. ART & DESIGN ACE OPEN Born in response to dramatic cuts in arts funding, ACE Open is a new and innovative gallery space dedicated to creating challenging conversations with its audience. It showcases a diverse range of Australian and international artists who present experimental, unconventional work. Only launching in early 2017, ACE Open has quickly made a name for itself as being one of the most exciting art spaces in Adelaide, uncompromising in its dedication to quality and enthusiasm for creative risk-taking. Don't miss: Next Matriarch — an exhibition showcasing art from Indigenous women. SISTER GALLERY Created by artists Mia Van den Bos and Ashleigh D'Antonio, Sister burst onto the Adelaide art scene with its incredible stream of contemporary and experimental art from all over Australia. The gallery celebrates young, upcoming and underground artists with a bold point of view and a non-traditional approach. Located just outside of the city in Bowden (near some fabulous cafes and markets), Sister is easily accessible via the tram from the city. It's actually the perfect way to experience something totally different while exploring one of Adelaide's burgeoning cultural centres. Don't miss: Sister's October Openings, which will run in the gallery for two months. JAMFACTORY An Adelaide institution, JamFactory is a haven for all things ceramic and sculptural. Doubling as an education institute, it has purpose-built studios for the design and manufacture of jewellery, ceramics, furniture and glass. Because of its educational bent, visitors are not only able to buy direct from the artists but are able to get a sneak peek into cutting-edge processes and the next wave of influential Australian designers and makers. There's also the opportunity to participate in workshops and classes from industry leaders. Don't miss: Confluence. Presented in association with Tarnanthi Festival, it's an exploration of the work of Indigenous artists from all around Australia. ENSEMBLE ADELAIDE A concept store by and for locals, Ensemble is a new independent retail experience that puts good, sustainable design above all else. The recent home of the Slow Fashion Festival, Ensemble houses the work of local designers and artists, including BB Shoemaker and Goods Studios, and allows shoppers to buy direct from makers and artists. Beautifully curated and wonderfully relaxed, Ensemble is a space of beauty and collaboration that also highlights the innovation and spirit of the Adelaide creative scene. Don't miss: Seeing the makers work and chatting to them about their process. FOOD & DRINK NOLA Travel to New Orleans in the heart of Adelaide. Located in the city's relaxed East End, Nola is all about good beer, even better whiskey and delicious creole cuisine. Transforming Adelaide's stables building into the quintessential New Orleans speakeasy, the bar is a completely singular experience in the city's somewhat overcrowded small bar scene. Pouring at least 26 different craft beers at any given time, and having an ever-changing lineup of artisan whiskies, a menu designed for sharing (which features classics like cornbread, beignet and gumbo) and outdoor dining all summer, it's southern hospitality done right. Don't miss: The fried chicken is the most celebrated dish on Nola's menu for very good reason: it's light, crispy and just spicy enough to cut through all those beers. SUNNY'S This isn't your nonna's pizza. She'd probably like it, though. Serving Naples-style woodfired pizza with the best in South Australian beer and wine (and some very good cocktails), Sunny's is part restaurant and part club, with tables being cleared for live DJ sets every weekend. Located in the newly revitalised Solomon Street in the city's West End, Sunny's regularly involves collaborators representing the best of Adelaide's food scene. Delicious from start to finish. Don't miss: For all of its experimentation, Sunny's is still all about the classics. Their margherita is second to none. Pair that with their zesty Campari watermelon cocktail and you're set for summer. EAST END CELLARS Part bottle shop, part bar and 100 percent gourmet, East End Cellars is the perfect place to get your wine education. The shop has been pouring local wines (as well as a large variety of international labels), running educational tastings and preparing some of the most delicious food and decadent cheeseboards in the city for two decades. Everything is dedicated to getting the most out of your drink. Wines are expertly paired to your meal, and every week there is a guided tasting of their featured winery, where you can learn more about South Australian product from the best in the business. Don't miss: The huge selection of South Australian spirits, beers and wines exclusive to East End Cellars. THE SMELLY CHEESE SHOP An Adelaide Institution, The Smelly Cheese Shop has all your cheese needs covered. Located in the Central Markets, the shop stocks high-end and artisanal cheeses from all over South Australia and the world. With everything from imported French brie to Kangaroo Island feta, The Smelly Cheese Shop places quality above all else, offering customers the opportunity to have a real and in-depth experience with a true cheesemonger at the counter. In a state known for its passion for quality food, this shop is the pinnacle of excellence. Don't miss: The Smelly Cheese Shop runs classes all year round for the budding cheese connoisseur in all of us. They sell out notoriously quickly, so it pays to do your research and book in advance. WELLBEING & LIFESTYLE [caption id="attachment_643375" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Parks SA[/caption] MORIALTA CONSERVATION PARK While Adelaide is often derided as Australia's biggest small town, walking through Adelaide, you can see that size or space doesn't matter — it's all about how you use it. Located just 10 kilometres from the CBD, Morialta Conservation Park feels like another world, filled with rugged ridges, waterfalls and native woodlands. Visitors can challenge themselves with a variety of different hiking trails and, as they walk, be treated to expansive panoramic city views of the city and coast. And while you're walking, keep your eye out for native animals (koalas 24x7). Don't miss: A park. Adelaidians love Morialta, so it's best to head there early to save an inevitable car argument. BOTANIC GARDEN AND HIMEJI GARDEN If you can't leave the city but still want to get back to nature, the Botanic Garden and Himeji Garden should be at the top of your list. Designed by Japanese landscape artist Yoshitaka Kumada, the Himeji garden is a slice of beauty and tranquillity in the middle of Adelaide's bustling southern quarter. Featuring beautiful Japanese plant life, including black pine trees and gorgeous blossoms, the gardens are a favourite for Adelaidians who want to switch off and take some time out for reflection. Don't miss: Spring/summer sees the gardens truly come to life. Explore more with Pullman. Book your next hotel stay with Pullman and enjoy a great breakfast for just $1.
Thought bingo was for your nan? Think again. Hijacking the traditional format of bingo and combining it with raves, conga lines and lip sync battles, Bingo Loco is 50 percent one of those strange dreams you get after eating too much cheese and 50 percent just a walloping good time. And it's returning to Sydney in partnership with DesignMyNight for its biggest edition yet on Saturday, July 10. This time around, a lineup of well-known comedians will take on MC duties, while confetti showers and smoke cannons go off throughout the evening. Plus, UK-based EDM and hip hop hero Example will be joining in the fun with a special guest performance. On the night, an anticipated 3000 bingo ravers will compete for ultimate glory (and prizes) over the course of multiple rounds — this is Bingo Loco XXL, after all. In between the traditional bingo games, you'll be expected to groove to classic 90s rave bangers, partake in dance-offs amd battle others for lip sync queen titles. Basically, be prepared for many high-octane, energetic activities — gone are the days of simply raising your hand when you've got a full sheet of numbers. Some pre-bingo muscle stretches and vocal warm-ups are well-advised. You'll vie for prizes, which in the past have included Coachella tickets, mobility scooters (nan, listen up), trips to Vegas and convertible cars among other goldmines. Bingo Loco has been running across the globe for a few years and is now in the middle of an extended Aussie tour, with show proceeds going to the Make-A-Wish Foundation Australia. Bingo Loco XXL will hit The Dome at Sydney Showgrounds on Saturday, July 10. Tickets cost from $65 per person and can be purchased here.
Reckon you know everything there is to know about the mighty martini? Had it dirty, dry, perfect, shaken, stirred? Get down to Eau de Vie during World Class Cocktail Week to find out that you don’t know what you don’t know. At a masterclass to be hosted on May 27, the secretive bar’s martini experts will carry you through the cocktail’s long and wicked history — from the myths surrounding its origins (did it evolve from a cocktail served up at San Francisco’s Occidental Hotel in the 1860s? Or was it invented 50 years later in New York City?) to Dorothy Parker’s versification “I like to have a martini, two at the very most; after three I’m under the table; after four, I’m under the host.” Along the way, there’ll be sterling silver martini syringes, Tiffany vermouth dispensers and martini scales. There’s no end to the lengths mixologists have gone to in search of the dream martini.
With several smash-hit Australian seasons and an Olivier Award-winning run in the West End already under its perpetually youthful belt, plus a 2025 transfer locked in on New York's Broadway, there has rarely (if ever) in the history of Australian theatre been a production as globally successful as Kip Williams' jaw-dropping adaptation of Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray. Trailblazing a new genre of cine-theatre, its fusion of live performance with real-time video capture and prerecorded elements has consistently blown the minds of audiences since its premiere in 2020. Given the impact of that production, it was inevitable that Williams' farewell as STC's outgoing Artistic Director would be one final display of the revolutionary stage-meets-screen storytelling that has so defined his 13-year tenure. And it was equally inevitable that such a production would draw comparisons with its endlessly celebrated older sibling. Now that Bram Stoker's vampiric 1897 novel has been given the Dorian treatment — starring a solitary performer transformed into multitudes via a handful of props, some wigs and quick changes, a carefully choreographed troupe of camera operators, a collection of flying screens and an audacious amount of talent — the question lingers: will worldwide acclaim also ensue? It certainly wasn't so for the middle child of Williams' trilogy of gothic retellings, with the internationally blockbusting Dorian Gray followed in 2022 by the somewhat less-triumphant Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde — a moodier two-hander that failed to enrapture with quite the same intensity as its predecessor. Despite this stumble, Williams' vivid, thrilling and relentlessly inventive Dracula reaffirms his mastery of a vernacular of stagecraft that he has been prototyping for the better part of a decade. Various pathfinding productions by this director, including Tennessee Williams' Suddenly Last Summer in 2015 and 2016's Miss Julie for MTC, toyed with the intersection of cinema and stage, integrating moments of screen time into otherwise largely conventional shows. This led to the astonishing 2018 production of Brecht's The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, starring Hugo Weaving (The Royal Hotel), which introduced roving camera operators for the first time. Each production in this continuum of film-stage hybrids has pushed both the technology and the performers further and further, restlessly searching for new frontiers and untapped potential. By contrast, Williams' Dracula doesn't seem to offer much that hasn't already been seen in its progenitors. And yet, if previous shows can be considered experiments, Williams' most-recent production represents cine-theatre in its most-perfected form — the final evolution of an emergent art form that will be his enduring legacy. Much like Dorian Gray, first portrayed with Herculean skill by Eryn Jean Norvill and most recently in London by Succession's Sarah Snook, the power of Dracula hinges on the performer at its centre. We meet Zahra Newman in a state of flux. Her prone body writhes and vibrates as superimposed doppelgängers desperately grope around her, some forcefully ejected from view, others yanked inward, back into the seething form. There could hardly be a more perfect setup for a show in which Newman must not only flit from one character to the next, but also perform with multiple prerecorded versions of herself. While Stoker's text does not aim for comedy, Count Dracula as a pop-culture icon can be camp. Williams and Newman lean hard into these kitsch tropes, particularly in the realisation of Van Helsing as a Gandalf-haired woo-woo shaman and the lip-licking, predatory, subtly queer sensuality of the Count himself. Borrowing again from Dorian, these pop-culture winks play with anachronisms that throw the period source material into stark relief. However, where Dorian's commentary on impossible beauty standards and influencer artifice felt fresh and urgent, Dracula's sometimes-goofy nods to B-movie horror feel less relevant — not that this detracts from the sheer virtuosity of Newman's performance. To navigate an epistolary narrative told through the journal entries of various protagonists, Newman has crafted a rich array of fully rounded characterisations. Gifting each with depth, nuance and a physical clarity that never falters, she deftly hops between Jonathan Harker, his fiancée Mina, macho cowboy Quincey Morris, the trio of buxom succubi in Dracula's castle and many others (23 characters in total) — every one unique and unmistakable. It's a breathtaking feat, in itself worth the price of admission, as once again Kip Williams creates a spotlight for one of our most-gifted actors to show us everything they're capable of. As Dracula unfolds, there's a real sense that every lesson, every gamble, every trial-and-error exercise of Williams' career has been distilled into one definitive event. Will it be as globally revered as The Picture of Dorian Gray? With so much DNA shared between the two, the answer may already be pumping through Dracula's veins. Images: Daniel Boud.
