On Friday, June 25, four Local Government Areas in Sydney went into lockdown in response to Sydney's latest cluster of locally acquired COVID-19 cases. From 6pm today, Saturday, June 26, all of Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong will also be under stay-at-home orders — with the entire area, including the four LGAs already in lockdown, required to stay at home for the next fortnight. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the new stay-at-home orders in her second press conference today, noting that "if we're going to do this, we need to do it properly. There's no point doing a three-day lockdown and then having the virus continue to bubble away in the community." That means that the lockdown will be in effect until at least 11.59pm on Friday, July 9. Accordingly, everyone in Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong will be under the same conditions that've been in place in the City of Sydney, Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick LGAs for the past day — and were in effect when the state went into lockdown back in March 2020. So, you'll only be able to leave the house for four specific essential reasons: to work and study if you can't do it from home; for essential shopping; for exercise outdoors in groups of ten or fewer; and for compassionate reasons, which includes medical treatment, getting a COVID-19 test and getting vaccinated. Otherwise, everyone must stay at home. That said, there are no restrictions on when you can go shopping or go out for exercise, and there's no curfew. https://twitter.com/NSWHealth/status/1408641709429301251 Retail stores can remain open, but people are only permitted to go out for essential buying — not to browse or loiter. Hospitality businesses can open for takeaway and deliveries only. Regarding weddings, they can proceed tomorrow, Sunday, June 27. After that, they can't take place. Funerals will still be able to go ahead, though, with a maximum of 100 attendees and density caps of one person per four-square-metres indoors. New restrictions will also come into effect at 6pm today, Saturday, June 26, in all other parts of NSW. If you're anywhere in the state beyond Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong, you will only be able to have five people over to your house (including children), and you'll need to wear a mask in all indoor non-residential settings and at outdoor events. Also in the regions, dancing is banned, vertical drinking is off the cards, dance and gym classes are limited to 20 people per class, and seated, ticketed events outside can only operate to 50-percent seated capacity. And, the one person per four-square-metre rule is back in all indoor and outdoor settings. Unsurprisingly, if you've been in Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong since Monday, June 21 and you're now elsewhere in the state, you'll still need to follow the stay-at-home orders. So, regardless of where you are right now in the state, if you've spent any time this week in an area that is either currently in or about to go into lockdown for the next fortnight, you will need to go into lockdown as well. https://twitter.com/NSWHealth/status/1408592352818601987 Announcing the expanded stay-at-home orders, Premier Berejiklian said that "there's two things going against us on this one — that is the fact that it is very difficult to geographically shut down various suburbs without people who are working and living having infected or transmitted the virus elsewhere; and, secondly, the best advice I've had from health experts today is that the transmissibility is at least double previous variants that we've seen." She continued: "so those factors have led to the health advice that we've been given and that's why we must act." Regarding the duration of the lockdown, the Premier noted that "the best health advice today is that it should be for two weeks, but if there is any massive improvement ahead of that time, of course, we'll evaluate that." She explained that shortening the stay-at-home period was unlikely, however. "We could assess after seven days, but I want to be very upfront with the public: this will be for all intents and purposes a two-week lockdown." Today's new restrictions come after 29 new cases were reported in the 24 hours until 8pm yesterday, Friday, June 25, making a total of 82 locally acquired cases since Wednesday, June 16. As always, Sydneysiders are also asked to continue to frequently check NSW Health's long list of locations and venues that positive coronavirus cases have visited. If you've been to anywhere listed on the specific dates and times, you'll need to get tested immediately and follow NSW Health's self-isolation instructions. In terms of symptoms, you should be looking out for coughs, fever, sore or scratchy throat, shortness of breath, or loss of smell or taste — and getting tested at a clinic if you have any. All of Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong will be under stay-at-home orders from 6pm on Saturday, July 26 until 11.59pm on Friday, July 9. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
An exhibition exploring the beauty of underwater plant life has opened at the Royal Botanic Garden's outdoor exhibition space, The Calyx. Inside the Tide recreates kelp forests, coral reefs and seagrass meadows above the ground — using land plants in order to demonstrate the marvelous aesthetic and ecological value of these marine environments. "When most people hear the word seaweeds, they think of the dead stuff rotting on the beach or it touching their legs when they're trying to swim," Dr Yola Metti says. "There's a huge lack of awareness of the benefits of marine algae in general. One of the biggest things we can be thankful for is the amount of oxygen algae produce." Over 20,000 plants have been installed inside the venue, including one of the largest vertical green walls in the southern hemisphere. The plant wall, that most recently played home to thousands of flowers for the exhibition InBloom, now springs forward with the lush green tones of underwater plant life. "Our land plants are the actors with cactus and other succulents playing the roles of corals, and ferns and ivy becoming the seaweeds," Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Curator Manager David Laughlin said. "We have pandanus trees on the sandy shore with mock seagrass meadows we've created to feel like you're by the beach but in the heart of the city, surrounded by our beautiful gardens." The horticultural exhibition has been created in collaboration with puppetry and arts collective Erth who has helped transform The Calyx into a marine world with expressive sculptures of sea creatures and interactive elements that both children and adults can engage with. Inside the Tide is running until July 31, 2022. Throughout the exhibition, The Calyx will be open 10am–4pm daily and entry is available via donation.
The Autark Home redefines waterfront living. Passivhaus, an independent research institute, has built an eco-friendly floating houseboat. The houseboat is highly energy-efficient, runs completely on solar power and is ten times more energy efficient than the average house. The Autark Home is currently flaoting in Maastricht, Netherlands. Designed by Pieter Kromwijk, the prototype has gained popularity because of its ultra-low energy consumption. There are plans to produce more Autark Homes to meet the demand of willing buyers.
Any time is a good time for a getaway in the Hunter Valley, though that statement is going to be particularly true this June. That's when the Cheese Lovers Festival returns for its second year, and you can try as much dairy as you can stomach for just $20 entry ($15 for early birds). This cheesy, cheesy festival will showcase over 50 cheese, wine and craft beer stalls with tasting opportunities. Tasting opportunities. There's an amateur 'fancy cheesecake' competition, cheesemaking classes and workshops with White Rabbit Brewery to help you pair beer and cheese like a pro. This year there will also be the opportunity to attend a special dinner or lunch with a three-course cheesy menu designed by cheesemaker and founder of Bruny Island Cheese Company, Nick Haddow. Basically, if you can't find a reason to make the trip, you're not looking hard enough. And that's just the official side of things. With more than 150 wineries in the area, taking a few detours is to be expected.
There's a little bit of Surry Hills making itself at home in the inner city; Sydney's coffee aficionados Single Origin Roasters have opened their own takeaway coffee joint in the CBD. It's good news for jaded CBD workers wanting a change from their ground floor go-to; the Surry Hills cafe crew have brought their signature roasted beans, mad barista skills, eco-friendly packaging and a solid brekkie menu to York Street — right beside The Barber Shop. Replicating the Single O's Sideshow takeaway bar, the new CBD spot is serving up the team's Reservoir house blend, alongside select single origins and the 'filter of the week' to change up your daily cup. This week, you'll be sippin' on La Roda Colombia,Mimba AA Tanzania and Seka Forest, Ethiopia. Channelling an Italian cafe feature, Single O boasts a 'standing bar' where you can take a damn second to enjoy your cup and admire a ceiling installation by artist Renuka Fernando, painted with coffee and cascara (coffee fruit tea, which you can also try here, alongside kombucha on tap from Wild Kombucha). The whole thing's designed by big gun design firm Luchetti Krelle, best known for Momofuku Seiobo, Adriano Zumbo, The Butler, ACME and the upcoming Hello Kitty Diner. But you can't start the day with only a coffee in your paws (no, no you can't). Single O's CBD venture sees a menu created by head chef Troy Cotton, with plenty of solid morning breakfast options; we like the sound of waking up with a cappuccino rice pudding ($8). You'll can pick up Single O's signature banana bread with espresso butter ($6), or something more substantial like the bacon roll with red eye mayo, fried eggs and tomato apple ketchup ($12) or Cotton’s interpretation of a Croque-Monsieur with smoked leg ham, cheddar béchamel and pickled vegetables ($11). There are lunch offerings too, from salads to coffee braised beef brioche with pickles and slaw ($15). And because they're total legends, all their takeaway food and coffee packaging is recyclable and/or compostable. Top marks. So why the venture into the CBD? Single O's Lirie Chen says they're keen to bring a little life into the daytime city slog. "York Street has had a string of bar openings and has some great nightlife. We’re excited to join the York Street party, to be the ‘daylife’ and service the CBD crowd” says Chen. "We’re most look forward to bringing damn fine coffee and food to people who are on the go, and if they want to hang out and explore the world of specialty coffee, it’s all there for the taking." Find Single O CBD at 89 York Street, Sydney. Open Monday to Friday from 6.30am – 4pm.
The chef behind two top Sydney restaurants is changing tact. He's swapping fine dining and natural wine in sleek surrounds for something cheap, cheerful and ready to cure your hangover: shawarmas. Mat Lindsay, of Chippendale's Ester and Surry Hills' Poly, is teaming up with Russell Beard, Mark Dundon and Jin Ng of Paramount Coffee Project and Paramount House Hotel (in which Poly is located) to open a tiny ten-seat shawarma shop, which is set to launch on Commonwealth Street in early September. As well as opening its doors for those necessary late-night, drunken snacks, the new takeaway spot — dubbed Shwarmama — will also be open for breakfast and lunch. In fact, it'll be open all day. On the menu, it'll have just four options: an Israeli-style breakfast kebab called sabich, with fried eggplant and boiled eggs; a spicy lamb shawarma in laffa flatbread; fried-to-order falafel stuffed in fresh pita with garlic sauce and mango pickle; and a NHSP (not halal snack pack). It'll also be fully licensed, with a red and white wine on tap, as well as beer and a craft soda. https://www.instagram.com/p/BRUwrAAjq2p/ The focus will, of course, be the lamb, which Lindsay will prepare using local NSW meat covered in a spice-heavy marinade, which will then be sliced and slow-cooked on the signature rotisserie. The team will also make all its own sauces, pickles and condiments and there'll be a focus on sustainable packaging. Those whose hangovers often render them bedridden will be happy to know the shop will also offer delivery. So, how did the fine dining chef and three hotel owners decide to open shawarma shop? "We were going through a phase at Ester of making shawarma-style things for Sunday lunches, and got really excited about it," says Lindsay in a statement. "I half-jokingly threw the idea out there to Russell, and here we are." While it does seem like a bit of a curveball move, Lindsay is not the first fine dining chef to throw his hat in the shawarma ring. Late last year, famed chef, cookbook author and owner of the global Momofuku chain David Chang opened Bang Bar, a takeaway spot in New York serving up a Korean take on shawarmas. Shwarmama is slated to open at Shop 2, 106–112 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills in early September. Top image: Ester.
Never a brand to do things like anyone else, Melbourne-based skincare label Aesop has just launched their first collection of room sprays as a multi-sensory experience. With fragrance said to evoke some of the strongest emotional responses (it's the sense most associated with memory), the modern-day alchemists asked composer and musician Jesse Paris Smith (daughter of Patti and Fred 'Sonic' Smith) to create three unique tracks to 'narrate the journey' of each scent. It's pretty poetic. As with Aesop's fragrances, each track has been deconstructed, with top notes (ones that are perceived immediately), heart notes (the ones that emerge just before the top notes dissipate) and base notes (the lingering finale). Smith's three compositions are ambient and perfectly calming — and available to download for free off the Aesop website. It's like being at a health spa in the comfort of your own home. Each scent is named after an ancient Greek city and is distinct without being overpowering — there's no sickeningly sweet vanilla here. Rather, Aesop has developed three characteristically sophisticated scents. Istros combines pink pepper, lavender and tobacco, while Cythera embraces geranium, patchouli and Myrrh, and Olous is a citrusy burst of botanicals, cedar and cardamom. Aesop's aromatic room sprays retail for $60 each and and can be bought here. [embed]https://vimeo.com/224417380[/embed]
Across nine days, Manly will play host to the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing 2015. And don't worry, there's much more to see than just surfers. Set along the sandy shores of one of Sydney's best beaches, this sport, music and lifestyle festival brings together world-class surfing and skateboarding talents, with every stack and swell covered by the live broadcast team from Channel [V] across the weekend. Musos will also be taken care of, with two days of live acts to get the expected 175,000-strong crowd going. Festival favourites Jagwar Ma (fresh off two years of non-stop touring) will kick things off with a cracking set on the afternoon of Friday, February 13. Topping that off with the feel-good acoustics of Vance Joy and Fremantle's high-energy team San Cisco the following evening, this free, all-ages celebration of action and art is a great day out on the Corso.
Leichhardt favourite Golden Gully is no more. The Norton Street bar has poured its last craft beer and served its last tasty vegan snack. But, all is not lost. The building previously occupied by the small bar has been transformed into bright new neighbourhood cocktail haunt Otis, which boasts a hefty sandwich menu, a carefully curated drinks list and an all-star bar team. Behind the welcoming newcomer is Conor O'Brien and Dan Teh. O'Brien has previously worked across a who's who of acclaimed Sydney bars including Baxter Inn, Burrow Bar, Earl's Juke Joint and Tio's Cerveceria, while Teh has been behind the bar at The Little Guy in Glebe for the past four years. Joining them is Kelsey Blacksmith (ex-Baxter Inn, Rosenbaum & Fuller and Doss House), taking charge of Otis' front of house. The space has been kept relatively similar to Golden Gully, with the biggest change being a new bright orange coat of paint. You can still find a sunny streetside spot to enjoy a schooner or hide away with a glass of wine in the newly refurbished upstairs lounge area. The cocktail menu has been carefully curated to create a fun mix of standards and intricate creations. Making good use of the team's wide range of mixology experience, the opening menu features plenty of native ingredients, as well as techniques you'd expect from a lavish CBD bar such as foams, fat washing and house fermentation. You can also expect a themed section of the drinks list that is sure to change regularly. Kicking things off is the All Day Brekkie cocktails, including concoctions like a banana bread old fashioned; a tequila, peach, pepperleaf and DOOM JUICE spritz; and the Crunchy Nut which combines Johnie Walker Black, native black tea, lemon myrtle, Bizzarro, Crunchy Nut cereal, milk and lemon. Accompanying the cocktails is a stocked fridge of natural wines, local craft beers and seltzers, with the ever-evolving vino list placing the spotlight on small, local and inventive producers. On the food menu, sandwiches take pride of place. Highlights include a porchetta roll utilising pork from Whole Beast Butchery in Marrickville, sun-blushed mayo and salsa verde; and a whopping seven-cheese toastie brought to life with truffle mayo and pickled red onion. Head in on a Sunday and you can cure your sore head from the night before with the bar's bloody mary and toastie combo for just $20. That's not the only deal you'll nab here on Norton Street. There's also a sizeable happy hour running from 5–7pm Tuesday–Saturday. Across these two hours five days a week, all pints are available for schooner prices, and two of Sydney's absolute favourite cocktails — negronis and Tommy's margaritas — are both available for just $12. Joining a host of beloved venues on the bustling Inner West thoroughfare, Otis is looking to embrace the local community as much as possible. The venue has already collaborated with neighbouring record store Crosstalk Records and, with plenty of popular Leichhardt venues a stone's throw away and the team boasting a nice list of hospo pals, you can expect some exciting teamups and events in the near future. Otis is located at 153 Norton Street, Leichhardt — open 3–12am Tuesday–Friday, 1pm–12am Saturday and 1–10pm Sunday.
Parisian-style cafe Jardin St James received points for originality when it opened in St. James' Crypt back in 2015. It's the CBD's dreamiest place for a coffee and a pain au chocolat — a seat in the old sandstone church with views of Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral and the law courts is about as European as you can get in Sydney. And it's now the place to go for an aperitif on a Thursday or Friday after work too. JSJ has announced a new evening menu with drinks and nibbles to help wind down at the tail-end of the work week. Tapping into into that truly French tradition of eating and drinking well, the aperitif menu includes tempura olives with beetroot dip, fromage croquettes with chipotle, a charcuterie board (complete with prosciutto, salami, chicken liver paté, chargrilled vegetables and baguette) and a cheese board (which includes a selection of local and imported cheeses with side condiments). Don't forget to order a carafe of wine from a strictly French wine list. There's also a small selection of beers, too, including Frenchies' deep red bière de garde Astrolabe. As usual, Jardin St James is open for breakfast and lunch, Monday to Friday. Jardin St James is now open on Thursdays and Fridays until 8pm at St James Church, 173 King Street, Sydney. For more info, visit jardinstjames.com.
It’s nothing new to reference the explosion of social media across our cultural landscape, how it mediates our fumbling navigation through the murky and glorious waters of the World Wide Web, nor how its various forms facilitate and foster ever-expanding networks of communication, knowledge and connection globally. Rather than contracting our cyber presence to the corners of our computer screens, sites such as GetUp! and Twitter have become the go-to tools of a dynamic, interwoven and international citizenry in their various en-masse calls for change to governments, institutions and laws (think of the Arab Spring, or the current ‘Occupy Wall Street’ movement). A concurrent trend of the Noughties has been the popularisation of ethical consumerism. No longer the exclusive domain of hippies or hipsters, the growth of demand for organic food, fairtrade goods, farmers markets and the like reveal a genuine awakening regarding the production of goods as well as a desire to align one's consumerism with one's values. Cue the bright-eyed, pigtailed offspring of these two trends, Slavery Footprint. A new app developed by Justin Dillon, Slavery Footprint aims to show you how many ‘slaves’ your consumption entails via the supply chain, which, the website informs, now enslaves more people than at any time in human history. The application isn’t designed as a guilt trip or a disincentive to buying, but rather is geared towards heightening awareness as an avenue for inciting change – change through you, and your choices. And not just a change in the brands you buy – the app doesn’t offer ‘alternative, cruelty-free’ options so as to avoid the emergence of expensive, ‘ethical’ brands only economically accessible to certain demographics – but rather a change in the entire mentality towards consumption and, hopefully, along with it, the enterprise of slave labour that sustains it. Says Ambassador Luis CdeBaca of the U.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, who helped develop the app, “You’re going to be touched by slavery no matter what, and I think that’s actually a liberating thing. We can no longer say this is someone else’s problem….” Overwhelmingly, the ethos of the app is empowerment, and apparently Dillon has struck an untapped reservoir of empowerment-hungry shoppers. On a recent trip to Melbourne I happened across a piece of paper stuck to a graffitied wall in an alleyway that asked “Is our empathy on the rise?” After ponderous deliberation, I wrote “Maybe, but I think we can do better”. And with the aid of innovations such as Slavery Footprint, perhaps we can, after all.
Part of the historical Worimi Conservation Lands, the Stockton Sand Dunes are considered the largest coastal moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. And the best way to explore the 32 kilometres of sand is on four wheels with Sand Dune Adventures. The company, which is owned and operated by the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council, offers a special experience that combines insights into the rich cultural heritage of the area with adrenaline-pumping quad biking action. On the 1.5-hour Aboriginal Culture Quad Bike Tour, you'll ride from the bush to the beach as your Aboriginal guide explains the traditional uses and care of the land you're on, including pointing out some freshwater lagoons and burial sites. You'll also get information on traditional Aboriginal food, culture and history. The tour is suitable for all experience levels, and the bikes have automatic thumb throttle so, after a quick safety tutorial on riding techniques, you should get the hang of things quickly. Images: Destination NSW
With its latest film festival, Dendy Newtown isn't reaching for the stars — instead, it's happy with making it to the moon. Celebrating 50 years since the lunar landing, as everywhere in town seems to be, the cinema chain is screening a heap of flicks about the Earth's only natural satellite. Love in-depth documentaries? Twisty sci-fi? Feel-good dramas? They're all on the lineup. The newest movie on the bill is Apollo 11, aka the latest doco to ponder the enormous feat of sending humanity where it had never gone before. Naturally, it's worth seeing on a big screen. Other highlights include Duncan Jones' Moon, starring Sam Rockwell as a man working at a lunar base; Aussie comedy The Dish, about the Parkes Radio Telescope's role in broadcasting the huge event; and Ryan Gosling-starring Neil Armstrong biopic First Man. You can also explore the impact that three women had on the mission thanks to Hidden Figures, and relive Apollo 13's struggles in the Tom Hanks film of the same name. Thanks to documentaries Moonscape, Moonwalk One, The Other Side of the Moon and Armstrong, the list goes on, with the Moon Film Festival running from Tuesday, July 16 to Wednesday, July 24. Times and dates for each individual flick vary, so start planning if you're keen on looking up while looking at a cinema screen.
Six years after Carl's Jr first hit Aussie shores, the cult-favourite American burger joint is at last landing in Sydney, announcing that it'll open its first local store in the city's west. Come early 2021, you'll be able to head to Wetherill Park to tuck into the fast food chain's menu — with the brand renowned for its monstrous stacked buns. When it flings open its doors — with an exact date yet to be revealed, but early in the new year currently slated — it'll set up shop at the Greenaway Centre on The Horsley Drive. Burger lovers can expect Carl's Jr's signature menu of 'American classics' that's earned it a heap of fans overseas, as well as at the chain's Queensland, Victorian and South Australian joints. We're talking the aptly named Thickburger, teaming an angus beef patty with extras like portobello mushroom, bacon and guacamole, and jalapenos, all alongside hefty chargrilled numbers such as the Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger. The Big Carl rocks a double patty and oozy American cheese, and chook-lovers are sorted with three different chicken dishes. Then, there are breakfast options for the early birds, veggie burgers for folks eating a plant-based diet, salads for the virtuous and some pretty solid sundaes and shakes for dessert. This might be the first Carl's Jr store in Sydney, but it isn't the first in New South Wales — with existing spots in Bateau Bay and Glendale. In the near future, they'll all be joined by additional venues across the state. Carl's Jr plans to launch other eateries in the metropolitan Sydney area and in regional NSW, although locations and dates haven't been announced. "We've already had tremendous success within the Australian market and aim to open 100-plus restaurants around the country over the next ten years," said Gaven Needham, General Manager — Asia Pacific of Carl's Jr. parent company, CKE Restaurants. Find Carl's Jr at the Greenaway Centre at 1183–1187 The Horsley Drive, Wetherill Park from sometime in early 2021 — we'll update you with an exact opening date when one is announced.
First, it teamed up with Belles Hot Chicken to bring you this indulgent Malaysian twist on a fried chicken sando. Now, PappaRich has its eyes set on burgers. After a sneaky trial in Sydney stores last year, the Malaysian hawker chain has rolled out a nasi lamek burger across Australia — at all of its 29 stores. The burger takes the typical accompaniments in this Malaysian rice dish and sandwiches them all between two pillowy brioche buns. There are layers of crispy Malay fried chicken, spicy sambal, peanuts and anchovies, all topped with cucumber and a fried egg. As a side? Expect PappaRich's deep-fried chicken skin instead of fries, of course. On offer for lunch and dinner throughout July and August, it'll cost you $14.90 all up, which we reckon will be worth every penny. If you're in Sydney, you can grab one in Bankstown or on your lunch break at the express outlet inside Westfield in the city; in Melbourne, pop by Chadstone, Southern Cross or QV; and PappaRich in Wintergarden and Coorparoo Square will be selling them in Brisbane. There are a heap more locations though, so check the website if you're looking for one closer to you. The nasi lamek burger will be available for lunch and dinner from July 1 until the end of August at PappaRich locations across the country. Updated: July 26, 2019.
Going to the theatre used to be a ceremonious occasion. Gloves were worn, bow-ties were tied in bows, and monocles were skillfully balanced on noses. Now there are jeans, mixed demographics trying to pull off various fashions, and well, there are still glasses but some of them are filled with cleanskin wine. It can be expensive to see a show, so here’s a guide of when and where to go to get some culture into your life, without having to eat noodles for the remainder of the week. Belvoir St Theatre Where: 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills Who: Belvoir has been nurturing Australian works and artists for 25 years, with a rich history of outstanding plays under its belt. They have two theatre spaces — Upstairs and the smaller, cosier Downstairs. How: Both Upstairs and Downstairs have student rush tickets — they're on Tuesday evenings and Saturday matinees — to be purchased on the day. Upstairs Theatre is a touch more expensive, costing $42 for previews/concessions, and student rush is $29. Downstairs, however, is only $32 for previews/concessions, and student rush tickets are $25. Griffin Theatre Where: SBW Stables, 10 Nimrod Street, Kings Cross Who: Nestled on Nimrod St in Kings Cross since 1979, Griffin offers fantastic new Australian works and contemporary theatre. How: You can still get a ticket for a mere $15 on Monday nights from 6pm. The only catch is that you have to line up to get a ticket — and people start lining up at 5:30pm, so get there early. Sydney Theatre Company Where: Pier 4/5, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay Who: STC has been a major force in Australian drama since its establishment in 1978, staging an annual 12-play program. How: STC offers Under 30 tickets for all mainstage productions for $35 and, if all seats are sold out, standing room tickets for $30 available two hours before the show. Old Fitzroy Theatre Where: 129 Dowling St, Woolloomooloo Who: The Old Fitz, home to one of Sydney’s first independent live theatre companies, the Tamarama Rock Surfers, has been staging independent Australian theatre since 1997. How: Tickets to previews or 'cheap Tuesdays' throughout the season are just $21. Their famous 'beer, laksa and show' deal has been superceded by the 'beer, meal and show' deal with the opening of the new bistro. It comes in at $34 on ‘cheap Tuesdays' and $41 on all other nights. Darlinghurst Theatre Where: 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Potts Point Who: They've staged over 120 shows since starting producing diverse artistic visions in 2001. How: Darlinghurst Theatre has 'Wallet Friendly Wednesdays' for artist and industry folks, when all tickets are $21 but must be purchased from 10am on the day of the performance. Throughout a production's run students pay $33. Bell Shakespeare Where: Often but not always at the Sydney Opera House Drama Theatre. Who: John Bell’s company that has been breathing new life into Shakespearean plays since 1990. How: Youth Under 30 tickets for all productions are less than half the price of a full ticket; however, their availability is dependent on each production so it's best you call up (02 8298 9000) and enquire before heading out. CarriageWorks Where: 245 Wilson St (cnr Codrington St), Eveleigh Who: CarriageWorks is a wonderful and unique space that puts on great contemporary theatre from local and international artists from various cultures and communities. How: With previews and concession prices varying depending on the production, they do have $20 student rush tickets for some performances, to be bought from the box office one hour prior to the show, generally on a Tuesday or a Wednesday within the season. New Theatre Where: 542 King Street, Newtown Who: Working under the mantra "Always real. Always raw. Always New", Newtown’s New Theatre is a visceral theatre experience, full of heart and driven by passion. How: They have a student rush ticket price of $17 every night. During the run they also have Pay What You Can nights ($10 min). Usually this is the first Sun after opening for New Theatre shows and every Tuesday for their Spare Room season (independent companies). They also have normal student pricing $20 for recognised Acting Schools, Universities and Colleges and SUDS (Sydney University Drama Society). Finally, if your wallet is too light and your fingers are click-savvy, get onto the HalfTix website for theatre tickets that are on offer at 30-40 percent off full price. Want to know what's on these stages right now? Check our performance section.
Is there any activity that KFC doesn't think could be improved by fried chicken? Given that the fast-food chain has put on weddings, opened a pop-up nightclub, held a music festival and hosted an 11-course degustation, there clearly isn't. The next to join the list is holidays. Even better, the chook-slinging brand is serving up free holidays. Always wanted to know what KFC dishes up in other countries? Now you can head there to find out on the brand's dime. KFC is calling its giveaway Kentucky Fly Chicken, naturally. Is Kentucky on the destination list? That hasn't been revealed, because exactly where you could be spending time is being kept a surprise. The promotion starts on Tuesday, February 20, runs through to Monday, March 18, and includes giving away trips over four weeks. Each week's winner scores a jaunt to somewhere around the world were fried chicken is definitely on the menu, of course. To enter, you do indeed need to buy some KFC first. Wannabe travellers can hit up the KFC app, then look for the international products among the usual range. They'll stand out in terms of what they're dishing up, but they're hidden. Locate them, spend at least $1 on an order, then cross your chicken-loving fingers that you emerge victorious in the winners' draw. Whatever the special meal is that you're looking for on the app, the nation that it's from is where you'll be flying to if your name is picked. And while there's only four trips on offer now, the campaign unofficially started with a fifth getaway which has already been won. It was to Tokyo, and involved spotting the wafu cutlet burger on the Aussie app, then jetting to Japan to try it in-person. The four folks who receive the rest of the prize getaways will get business-class flights, four-star accommodation, plus $6000 in total in cultural experiences and spending money while you're there. KFC is calling the promotion a travel service, because arranging your itinerary is covered. Depending on the destination, this might be an excuse to break out your KFC sweater — or your bucket hat from the chain's 2023 couture line. To enter the Kentucky Fly Chicken promotion, head to the KFC app between Tuesday, February 20–Monday, March 18, look for the international products among the menu and spend at least $1 on an order. Visit the KFC website for more details.
That feeling when you walk into a florist — and your nose leaves the street and meets the fragrances of flowers — is a special one. And it's one you'll have at Buds & Bowers. You'll probably see it right near the corner of Crown and Foveaux streets as its flowers spill onto the sidewalk; inside, your eyes wander over the colours, shapes and scents of that day's market haul. Just tell the in-house florists how much you want to spend and they'll put together a bunch of natives for your workmate or a special arrangement for your mum — whatever you need. Images: Caitlin Morahan.
Already one of the most scenic areas in Australia, the Whitsundays is giving visitors something else to look at: an installation of underwater and inter-tidal art. As part of the Whitsundays Reef Recovery and Public Art Project, six artists have created six artworks that sit beneath the sea, with the first four sculptures now in place. If you're heading to Blue Pearl Bay, Manta Ray Bay or Langford Spit, you can now check out the new attractions, as created by artists Brian Robinson, Col Henry and Adriaan Vanderlugt. Set up on Manta Ray Bay, Robinson's Migration of the Mantas is made from concrete and stainless steel, spans four metres by six metres and depicts six large manta rays, while Henry's Turtle Dream fashions a hawksbill turtle out of 15 tonnes of stainless steel at Langford Spit. As for Vanderlugt, he has two pieces in place: Maori Wrasse, which towers nearly four metres high in Blue Pearl Bay, and Manta Ray in Manta Ray Bay featuring indigenous markings from the Ngaro people, the Whitsundays' traditional owners. They'll soon be joined by another sculpture from Robinson, called Bywa, with the intertidal piece retelling a Dreamtime story about the reef, creation and marine life. It'll be put in place in Horseshoe Bay in Bowen later this month. Completing the set is a collaboration by Caitlin Reilly, Jessa Lloyd and Kate Ford, from the Arts Based Collective. Dubbed Anthozoa and headed to Blue Pearl Bay by late September, it "not only performs aesthetically in its sculptural form, but importantly doubles as a site for reef restoration," Lloyd explained when their piece was commissioned last year. "As the underwater form matures, visitors snorkelling and diving the site will see a sculpture festooned with a myriad of coral species, tentacles encrusted with soft and hard corals, marine animals sheltering in and peeking from small holes." [caption id="attachment_631230" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lauren Vadnjal[/caption] Selected from 73 expressions of interest, the sculptures all sit in spots accessible to snorkelers and scuba divers — should you need something else to look at, other than marine life, on your next underwater adventure. Other than celebrating creativity, the Whitsundays Reef Recovery and Public Art Project aims give the region a new attraction, unsurprisingly. "This artwork will provide a new experience for people travelling to the Whitsundays and will help the marine tourism industry recover after Cyclone Debbie," said Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones in a statement in 2018. "Around the world — from the Caribbean, to the Maldives, Spain, Bali and Australia's west coast — underwater art has been used to lure visitors." Top image: Tourism and Events Queensland.
New year, new summer sandwiches. That's the vibe at much-loved Japanese chain Motto Motto, as the crew has revealed its new Sando Sets made for the warm weather and on-court tennis action. Available for the special price of $15 from Saturday, January 10–Sunday, January 11, smash an elevated milk-bread creation, paired with signature Japanese seaweed-salt fries. Three exclusive options make up the Sando Sets, including a new-and-improved version of Motto Motto's chicken katsu order. Expect golden panko-crumbed chicken breast topped with creamy kale slaw and tonkatsu sauce. Plus, the orange-yuzu crispy fish is a sweet-and-sour delight, served with heaps of kale slaw and a slice of lemon. Finally, sando lovers can wrap their hands around the curry prawn sandwich. Here, five juicy prawns are smothered in rich Japanese curry and kale slaw, offering a comforting combination of spice and crunch bound to ace your next summer lunch. Yet the new menu also features two more stars ready to win over your taste buds. Those are Motto Motto's existing summer exclusives, giving you five tasty options to munch on. Get stuck into the tuna avo, a fan-favourite featuring creamy tuna, Japanese mayo, cucumber salad and sliced avo. Meanwhile, the double egg sando tops a silky egg salad with a soft-boiled number, ensuring harmonious flavour and texture.
When Skyfall initially hit cinemas back in 2012, it did so in a big way. The 23rd film in the Bond franchise picked up two Oscars, two BAFTAs, a Golden Globe, two Grammys and a wealth of critical acclaim. The response was understandable. As well as the usual espionage antics, shaken-not-stirred martinis, suits and new standout theme song — all Bond trademarks — Skyfall ranked among the long-running franchise's best films so far. Simply put, it's a pretty stellar film. So, if you've been hankering to revisit it again, you're in luck — Skyfall is returning to Sydney on the silver screen. And this time it's got a live score. Following in the footsteps of the Star Wars and Harry Potter films, as well as Bond's own Casino Royale, Skyfall will grace the Sydney Opera House with help from the Sydney Symphony. The orchestra, led by Australian conductor Nicholas Buc, will perform composer Thomas Newman's award-winning score, plus the franchise's classic theme track (obviously). With three screenings happening across Friday, November 22 and Saturday, November 23, this latest Sydney Symphony film and orchestra pairing is giving you the chance to hear the music behind one of the best films in history like it's never been heard before. Plus, relive Daniel Craig's third stint as 007, as well as Javier Bardem's memorable turn as the resident villain. The Sydney Symphony Orchestra's live Skyfall in Concert performances will take place at 8pm on Friday, November 22 and at both 2pm and 8pm on Saturday, November 23.
Walk into Melbourne's Napier Quarter, and you'll smell the aroma of coffee. Just don't expect to leave with a cup in your hand. The Fitzroy cafe is doing something that might seem at odds with today's always-caffeinated, always-on-the-go culture: it's phasing out takeaway coffees. There are two reasons for the Napier Street hangout's decision, and the first is exactly what you'd expect. At a time when reusable and recyclable takeaway cups are gaining prominence — including a world-first reusable cup made from recycled coffee cups — Napier Quarter is going one step further and eliminating the source of potential waste altogether. https://www.instagram.com/p/BrgCQlWgES7/ As stated in Napier Quarter's December 18 Instagram post, the other reason is all about getting Melburnians to slow down and actually enjoy their chosen brew, rather than drink it in a hurry. That queue of people usually hovering around any cafe counter, waiting for their orders so that they can walk straight out the door? Soon, you won't find that here. Napier Quarter also announced that you'll now be able to enjoy a flat white in-house for $3.50. Find Napier Quarter at 359 Napier Street, Fitzroy. Image: Brook James. Updated: December 20, 2019.
When the National Gallery of Victoria dedicates its blockbuster summer or winter exhibitions to big fashion names, one word usually applies no matter which designer is in the spotlight: stunning. It was true back in 2022 when the Melbourne venue turned its focus to Alexander McQueen, for instance, and also in 2021 when it did the same with Gabrielle Chanel. Expect the same across the summer of 2025–26 — it's Vivienne Westwood's time to shine, plus Rei Kawakubo from Comme des Garçons' moment as well. Displaying at NGV International across Sunday, December 7, 2025–Sunday, April 19, 2026, Westwood | Kawakubo is both an Australian and a world first, pairing pieces by both the British talent and the Japanese designer in one massive showcase. No matter which of the duo's works you're looking at, you'll be revelling in rule-breaking, status quo-subverting threads. Some helped define the fashion of the punk movement in the 70s. Others have earned the world's attention at the Met Gala. In-between, items donned by supermodels, seen in films and from collections worn by plenty of well-known names feature. [caption id="attachment_1011671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rhianna wearing Comme des Garçons, Tokyo (fashion house), Rei Kawakubo (designer) at The Met Gala, 2017. Photo © Francois Durand via Getty Images.[/caption] In total, more than 140 designs are gracing the NGV. To assemble such a wide range, the gallery has sourced pieces from New York's Metropolitan Museum, The Victoria & Albert Museum, Palais Galliera and the Vivienne Westwood archive, plus its own collection. Over 40 works are new gifts to the gallery from Comme des Garçons especially for Westwood | Kawakubo, as chosen by Kawakubo. Among the full lineup of items: punk ensembles made famous by The Sex Pistols and Siousie Sioux, the wedding gown that Sarah Jessica Parker (And Just Like That...) wore in Sex and the City: The Movie and the tartan dress that Kate Moss stepped into in Westwood's Anglomania collection in the mid 90s — and also a version of Rihanna's petal-heavy 2017 Met Gala outfit, plus pieces from collections that Lady Gaga and Tracee Ellis Ross (Black Mirror) have sported. Westwood | Kawakubo spans from taffeta to tweed, vinyl and leather to silk, and corsetry to ruffles and knitwear, then — and much beyond. The exhibition is designed to step through Westwood and Kawakubo's careers across five thematic strands, including the former's punk-era work and the influence of the movement on the latter, their shared needs to rebel against the norm, how the two women have looked either forward or back in their pieces, eschewing objectification and using fashion to make a statement. [caption id="attachment_1011673" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vivienne Westwood, London (fashion house), Vivienne Westwood (designer) Look 49, from the Anglomania collection, autumn–winter 1993–94. Le Cercle Républicain, Paris, March 1993. Photo © firstVIEW. Model: Kate Moss.[/caption] Top image: excerpt of Vivienne Westwood, London (fashion house), Vivienne Westwood (designer) Look 49, from the Anglomania collection, autumn–winter 1993–94. Le Cercle Républicain, Paris, March 1993. Photo © firstVIEW. Model: Kate Moss.
You've probably started to notice all the bunny-shaped chocolates, decadent edible eggs and cute baskets popping up at your local supermarket. Yep, Easter is just around the corner. If you're a super fan of the choc-fuelled annual event, then gear up for a fun day out at the Sydney Family Show, which is taking over the entertainment Quarter for two whole weeks. Whether you're wanting to channel your inner kidult or you're looking for a way to entertain your actual kids, this fair has you covered. Running from Thursday, April 1 till Sunday, April 18, the Sydney Family Show will have everything from carnival games and showbags to thrilling rides, such as dodgem cars, spinning teacups and a giant slide. You'll also get to partake in the epic Easter Basket Scramble and dive into a huge ball pit. Then, check out the live entertainment shows, hang out with adorable animals at the on-site nursery, or, if you prefer scaly reptiles, hold a snake at the daily reptile show. There are also some one-day events happening such as bunny hopping competitions on Good Friday; the Variety Easter Family Fun Day on April 8 in partnership with the namesake children's charity; and a dog talent show on the fair's closing day. It's an affordable day of fun, too, with tickets priced at $7 for kids, $15 for adults and a reasonable $40 for a four-person family. Of course, there's a global pandemic to be mindful of, so pre-booking tickets is encouraged. You can also expect social distancing measures to be in place, plus numerous hand washing facilities and sanitising stations around the fair. Sydney Family Show is taking over the Entertainment Quarter from Thursday, April 1–Sunday, April 18. Opening times are 10am–5pm daily, except over the Easter long weekend (April 2–5) when it'll be open till 6pm. Pre-book your tickets here.
Boy, do we have a giveaway for you. To celebrate the release of the stunning new documentary film Dancer, we're giving away a trip for two to Auckland — return flights and accommodation included. When you get to Auckland, you'll also get to see Sergei Polunin, one the world's most gifted ballet dancers, perform a rare, special guest appearance at the Auckland Arts Festival. From Oscar-nominated director Steven Cantor, Dancer takes a compelling behind-the-scenes look at the life of the magnetic bad boy of ballet, Sergei Polunin. He was the youngest principal dancer in the history of London's prestigious Royal Ballet, and he shocked the world by quitting just two years later and giving up dance entirely. If you're unfamiliar with the ballet world, Polunin was the guy that featured in the beautifully dance-heavy video clip for Hozier's song Take Me to Church. Dancer, by Oscar-nominated director Steven Cantor, is set for national release in Australian cinemas on December 1. Enter your details below and you're in the running. [competition]600295[/competition]
When wellness took Sydney by storm in the early and mid 2010s, it was Orchard St that was leading the charge. Combining herbal and nutritional medicine with tasty treats — like smoothies, nourishing meals and bespoke tea blends — the Bronte dispensary straddles the line between health food store and naturopathy clinic. Now with locations dotted around Sydney, the South Bronte location is still standing true to its founding ethos and is staffed by qualified naturopaths to offer guidance and support through whatever your health goals may be. Images: Arvin Prem Kumar
Maybe Sammy is no stranger to awards, landing on the World's Best Bar list multiple times. The Sydney institution has now pulled some strings with its fellow acclaimed mixologists to pull together a massive lineup for a new eight-day cocktail festival. Popping up across the Maybe Group's several Sydney spots, the Maybe Cocktail Festival will present free pop-ups from 16 of the world's best bars between Wednesday, April 12–Wednesday, April 19. For the festival, the hospitality group has enlisted the help of 12 international venues that landed on The World's 50 Best Bars 2022, as well as an additional three venues that placed between 50 and 100 on the longlist. Some of the spots you can expect to feature on the lineup include Barcelona's Sips (number three on the list), plus Alquímico from Colombia, Jigger & Pony from Singapore, Mexico's Hanky Panky and BKK Social Club from Thailand, all of which landed within the top 15. Other bars set to feature from across Europe, Asia, North America and South America include Drink Kong, Cafe La Trova, Tres Monos, Line, Overstory, A Bar with Shapes for a Name, L'Aqntiquario, Schofield's, Nutmeg & Clove, Sweet Liberty and Termini. Free events will be held at the OG Maybe Sammy in The Rocks, as well as Dean & Nancy on 22, Sammy Junior, The Strand Hotel Rooftop and Maybe Group's soon-to-open Paddington cocktail bar El Primo Sanchez. "I'm not sure I can think of anything more fun than being able to enjoy a cocktail experience from some of the best bars in the world every night, for a week," the festival's co-director Martin Hudak said. As part of the arrangement with the featured bartenders, the international guests are all encouraged to explore Sydney's bar scene and take in some of the other world-class hospitality venues the city has to offer. "We want this applauded, well-connected group of bar folk to experience just how good our bars are here. It's really challenging for Australian bars to get the same global awareness as bars in Europe and the Americas as it's easier and cheaper for bartenders to travel between those continents," continues Hudak. The full program of guest shifts from the international bartenders will be announced next month. The Maybe Cocktail Festival will take place across Sydney between Wednesday, April 12–Wednesday, April 19. Top image: Steven Woodburn.
Reckon your pup gets a bit lonely sometimes? Well, now you can find him a bunch of new mates with just a few swipes of your phone. It's all thanks to a clever new smartphone app, which helps dog owners to connect their pooches with other local doggos and dog communities. Created by Queensland University of Technology business student Josh Fritz — who came up with the app when he moved to Brisbane, adopted a cavoodle called Quincy and wanted to find him some buddies — PatchPets works a little bit like Tinder. Users create a personalised profile for their pup, and then use the app to find and network with other fur parents in their area, based on location. You can scroll through photos of local hounds, check out their details and get in touch with their owners to set up doggy play dates. To keep you informed about your pooch's possible new pal, profiles feature information about which vaccinations each dog has had, whether it's been desexed and what their all-important Instagram handle is. Got a particularly picky pupper? You can even filter the results by dog breed and size. PatchPets also comes loaded with plenty of other nifty features, including a directory that lists pet-friendly businesses nearby, plus real-time dog park maps — allowing you to see when four-legged friends are hanging out at your local park. No more rocking up to the park for a play sesh, only to find there's no one else there. And, you can use the app's message function to join group chats with your dog's new mates. Having launched in May, PatchPets has already clocked up over 5000 users — which means your doggo will be totally spoilt for choice in the friends department. PatchPets is now available to download for free, for both iOS and Android, from the iTunes App Store and Google Play. Images: QUT Media
When the end of July hits, the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games will kick off, with the finest athletes from Commonwealth countries competing to take home shiny medals. That's all well and good and interesting; however, we've found a much cuter display of sportsmanship that's also popping up this July. At 1pm on Thursday, July 21, viewers can watch four adorable guide-dogs-to-be participating in their very own Puppy Games. Yep, that's a thing and we're definitely here for it. If it sounds familiar, that's because it has been held for the past two years, too — but clearly this is the kind of adorable event that needs to be held annually. Once again, the folks at Seeing Eye Dogs have teamed up The Petbarn Foundation to host the canine-centric games — and, this year, with pet food brand Royal Canin as well. The results will be streaming on a device near you via the event's website. No matter where you're located in Australia, it sounds like perfect lunchtime viewing. How do the Puppy Games work, you might be asking? The event will see young trainee guide dogs Sandler, Tambo, Rani and Tom tackle a series of skill-testing challenges, with their every move captured on camera. They'll be helped through their tasks by their trainers — Abi, Jack, Lina and Paige, respectively. Accordingly, you can watch the young pups hurtle through a time trial, take on a 'puppy patience' food bowl challenge and battle it out for glory in the 'dogstacle distraction course'. And they are very much just pups — Tambo and Tom are the youngest at 11 weeks old, while Rani is the comparative veteran of the competitors at 15 weeks old. The project aims to support fundraising efforts for the annual Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, of course, but also promises a much-needed boost of dopamine and general happy feels all round. Viewers can donate to the cause by hitting the link on the event's website. This year, the appeal is shooting for a goal of $1 million to help cover the costs of breeding, training and caring for at least 20 Seeing Eye Dogs. Can't make Thursday's viewing? Fear not, the full event will be up on YouTube to rewatch any time you need a mood boost. The 2022 Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs Puppy Games will stream via the event's website from 1pm on Thursday, July 21.
If you resolved to spend the New Year getting a handle on today's topical issues, we've got just the event to get things started. Directed by TEDxSydney's Remo Giuffre and curated by Jess Miller, General Thinking on The Streets of Barangaroo will see the precinct's Wulugul Pop-Up welcome 12 months of free talks, debates and panel discussions on some of the globe's most pressing social concerns. Australia's best and brightest minds are set to challenge audiences with monthly sessions that both engage and entertain. Each month, expect to question your assumptions on life's bigger things, and even let out a cheeky chuckle or two. And with the program covering everything from hard-hitting political debates to the latest tech gadgets and the science of love, General Thinking on The Streets of Barangaroo offers up solid brain food for everyone. Pull up a deck chair by the water and enjoy some good ol' fashioned debate under the stars, outdoor-cinema style. The next event in the series, entitled 'Australia, I love you but...' brings local and international voices to the stage to unpack our country's skewed, debated and highly polarised sense of nationalism — essentially, what we dearly love about Australia, and what's making us a little disappointed. Confirmed speakers include emerging independent choreographer Amrita Hepi, a celebrated performance artist descending from the Ngapuhi tribe in Northern New Zealand and the Bundjulung people in northern New South Wales, and Australian Poetry Slam 2014 finalist Troy Wong. Importantly, this one's paired with gelato from RivaReno, so could potentially be the best date option Sydney's offered up in an age. Then in February, just in time for Valentine's Day, it's a speed dating event 'Love on The Streets of Barangaroo'. This time, you'll be delving into the psychology of modern dating with a professional love doctor (expect a few handy tips on how to make a good first impression, Tinder fans). And after all this deep deliberation, you'll be able to feast on some scrumptious offerings from the likes of Gin & It, Belle’s Hot Chicken, Mamak and Edition Coffee Roasters. Arrive at 6.30pm for a 7pm start and switch your brain on. But get on it ASAP, as tickets are limited and going fast. For more information on other events in the General Thinking on The Streets of Barangaroo series, visit the website. Image: Rob Mulally.
Gin & Jazz is back at The Apollo for another year. Every session brings you four hours of live, laidback grooves, which you can match with a $95 banquet – or all your favourite dishes. If you go for the former, you'll start with Beverage Director Matt Whiley's pink martini — a sweet yet herby mix of Four Pillars gin, Oscar vermouth, salted strawberry and bay leaf. Then, it'll be straight into the banquet, which consists of nine of The Apollo's classic dishes. Start with olives and pickles, grilled pita, tzatziki and bonito crudo with tomato tartare, before moving onto saganaki cheese with honey oregano, alongside a village salad. The main is oven-baked lamb shoulder alongside roasted potatoes, while watermelon and ouzo makes for a refreshing dessert. As for the jazz, it's happening on the last Sunday of every month between May to September, from 12–4pm. Catch guitarist Arthur Washington and his band on Sunday, June 29 and Sunday, August 31, and the Soundcliff Jazz Trio on Sunday, July 27 and Sunday, September 28.
It is easy to draw parallels between The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer and Kevin Costner's Waterworld. Both, for example, plunge the audience into a waterlogged land, drowned by past greed and arrogance. They also share a quest for dry land and feature a curious outsider as their protagonist. Here is where the comparison evaporates. Alvin Sputnik's creator, Perth artist Tim Watts, has developed a poetic, engaging future world using a low budget and a generous imagination. There is an elegance in how Watts shifts from one medium to the next, using animation, puppetry, song and live action to tell the story of Sputnik's tragic efforts to be reunited with his dead lover. His beguiling stage presence captures the audience's attention immediately, making it very easy to suspend disbelief and be moved to tears by a character built from a foam ball and a glove. At under an hour, and for a handful of dollars, this is exceptionally well-valued magic. Image by Michelle Robin Anderson https://youtube.com/watch?v=GK2QQxmE9jw
We've made it to the last day of winter (time to burn your beanies and unpack your togs) and to celebrate Falls Festival has just gifted us with one helluva lineup. Helping to ring in the art and music festival's 26th year is a pretty buzzworthy gang of musical mates headlined by American rapper Anderson .Paak. He'll be taking the stage with his band The Free Nationals, and performing hits off his Grammy Award-nominated album Malibu and maybe a tune or two off his highly anticipated third album, Oxnard Ventura. He's joined on the bill by big names like UK foursome Catfish and The Bottlemen, who'll be debuting some fresh new material at their only Aussie show; Australia's own Vance Joy; Scottish synth-pop trio Chvrches, who'll also be here for NYD celebration Field Day; Interpol, fresh off the back of their new album release, Marauder; and Toto. Toto. Yes, the American rock band behind the masterpiece that is 'Africa' is heading to Falls. While you're feeling nostalgic, you'll also be able to hit up Hilltop Hoods — call dad. True to form, the Falls 2018 local lineup is equally exciting, and every bit as broad. Homegrown acts hitting the stage include the dance-ready Flight Facilities, Melbourne's psychedelic King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Sydney producer Touch Sensitive, Gold Coast native Amy Shark and Heaps Gay DJs & Friends back for another year. This year, too, an impressive 48 percent of acts performing have female artists and, while it's not quite half — and there are still lots of other minority groups that are underrepresented — it's a start. As always, the tunes are backed by a colourful curation of art events, performances, pop-ups, markets, wellness sessions and gourmet eats. It's all happening over New Years at the usual spots in Tassie's Marion Bay, Lorne in Victoria, the North Byron Parklands and the Fremantle Oval Precinct, WA. But here's what you're here for — the full lineup. FALLS FESTIVAL 2018 LINEUP Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals Catfish and The Bottlemen (no sideshows) Vance Joy Chvrches Hilltop Hoods Toto Interpol 88Rising Feat. Rich Brian, Joji, Niki & August 08 (no sideshows) Flight Facilities Amy Shark DMA's Kind Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard Golden Features First Aid Kit (no sideshows) Ocean Alley Hockey Dad Cashmere Cat (no sideshows) The Vaccines Cub Sport Ruel Jack River Bishop Briggs Mallrat Briggs Touch Sensitive Tkay Maidza Dermot Kennedy Tired Lion Hobo Johnson & The Lovemakers Soccer Mommy Banks Triple One Alice Skye Heaps Gay DJs & Friends + More to be announced FALLS FESTIVAL 2018 DATES Lorne, VIC — December 28–31 Marion Bay, TAS — December 29–31 Byron Bay, NSW — December 31–January 2 Fremantle, WA — January 5–6 Falls Festival 2018 will take place over New Years. Friends of Falls members pre-sale tickets are available from midday Friday, August 31, with General Sales kicking off next Thursday, September 6 at 9am. For more info and to buy tickets, visit fallsfestival.com.
The dining room at Icebergs undeniably has one of the best views in Sydney. But the blissful Bondi views usually come at a pretty steep cost, considering that, for the best seats in the house, you have to fork out for a lavish feed in the two-hatted fine dining restaurant. But this summer, you can soak up that scenery without burning through too much of the budget (and with better views than at the bar), at a new pop-up on the Icebergs Terrace. The bar — which is a collaboration with Ketel One Botanical — has transformed the Bondi venue's outdoor area into a lush, flower-filled oasis serving cocktails and snacks from the Icebergs bar. The newly revamped terrace is now sporting a verdant fitout designed by local landscape architects and horticulturalists Secret Gardens. It's decked out with stacks of native Australian flora and boasts primo views of Bondi Beach. As the name suggests, the cocktail list is based around Ketel One Botanical, which is a new low-alcohol vodka that's been distilled with botanicals and infused with fruit essences. It's available in three flavours — grapefruit and rose, peach and orange blossom and a crisp cucumber and mint — and is being served with some of Icebergs' house-made sodas ($12 each). These include a blend of coconut, sea rosemary and jasmine, and a fig leaf and mango creation. If you're a gin lover, it's sure to be right up your alley. If not, there are a few wines, a Byron Bay Lager and a frozen grapefruit and orange cocktail on the menu, too. To match the botanically-driven boozing, a selection of bites from the Icebergs menu will make their way outside. You can stay light with oysters, fries or a caprese salad, or go all in with a crispy fish sandwich or the Icebergs burger ($20). Drinks are pouring from 12.30pm each day all summer (and until the end of May 2020). Find the Icebergs Terrace x Ketel One Botanical pop-up bar at Icebergs, 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach. It's open daily from 12.30–8pm until the end of March next year, then from 12.30–6pm on Saturdays and Sundays in April and May.
It's been five years since Taylor Square's rainbow crossing was removed in the middle of the night, without a word of warning. But now, just a week out from the 41st Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, it has been permanently reinstated — and it's as triumphant and vibrant as ever. The colourful crossing popped up on the corner of Bourke and Campbell streets yesterday, and has been officially launched by Lord Mayor Clover Moore and MP Alex Greenwich and Mardi Gras CEO Terese Casu this morning, Friday, February 8. With the support of the City of Sydney, NSW Roads and the RMS, the crossing features the colours of the gay pride flag, and curves with the road — meaning it takes the shape of an actual rainbow. When it was first announced back in June last year, Lord Mayor Clover Moore has applauded the move, calling it "a powerful acknowledgement of the importance of our LGBTQI community and history". https://www.instagram.com/p/BtmTKu8FWI9/ The original rainbow crossing was installed in February 2013, but was removed two months later by the NSW Roads Minister amidst safety concerns. Residents have since spent years petitioning for it to be reinstated — this Change.org petition got over 16,000 signatures — so this is undoubtedly welcome news to the LGBTIQ+ community and commuters that pass through Taylor Square each day. To celebrate, the City of Sydney will host a pop-up from 11am–1pm tomorrow, where you can get free rainbow icy poles, get a photo printed and even a free bike tune-up. The new installation, which has also included a local street upgrade for pedestrians and improvements to the Bourke Street bike path, will be in place for six months, before a safety review is undertaken by the RMS. If it ticks all the boxes, this rainbow icon will be sticking around permanently. It will join Melbourne's rainbow road, which was installed in St Kilda last year.
My girlfriend and I got into an elevator in Tokyo recently with Kim Moyes, and it was one of those awkward moments where you are both Aussies in a different country and you have to have a chat, you know, say g'day. It was even more awkward because the lift was made for Japanese sized people and we knew who he was, and he probably suspected we knew. Anyway, we filled the awkward 5 or so floors with idle chit chat about vintage synthesizers and then parted ways. He seemed nice.We knew him for his work as one half of The Presets, he behind the drumkit, but also contributing the techno influence and cool factor to Julian Hamilton's fundamental classical training and nerd-chic.Kimberley Issac Moyes has put together a collection of works which he has been tinkering away at since leaving the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. He has aptly titled it Selected Jerks 2001-2009. It is a varied mix of tunes which shows a keen ear for musical trends and a deep knowledge of electronic music. It will be released by Cut Copy's label Cutters Record through the taste making Modular records. He will be dropping these in your ears at the Sydney album launch at the OAF with Bang Gang and Riot In Belgium member Beni supporting.https://youtube.com/watch?v=PwJwXpHivQM
He's one of the most critically acclaimed and successful hip hop artists of our generation. He has 14 Grammys to his name, plus an Academy Award nomination for one of his contributions to the Black Panther soundtrack. He won the 2017 Triple J Hottest 100, and also became the first ever artist to take out the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for contemporary music in 2018. His last stadium shows Down Under, back in that same year, sold out ridiculously quickly, too — and he's coming back to Australia and New Zealand to play five huge gigs before 2022 is out. We're talking about Kendrick Lamar, of course, who has just announced a huge 'The Big Steppers' world tour in support of his just-dropped fifth solo studio album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers — his first since 2017's DAMN., and also his first full-length release since 2018's Black Panther soundtrack. The Compton rapper will be heading to Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland in December, to close out a global jaunt that starts in the US in July, then ventures through Europe before coming our way. The word you're looking for: alright. While fans can expect plenty of tracks from Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, Lamar's extensive catalogue is sure to get a whirl — including tracks from 2011's Section.80, 2012's good kid, m.A.A.d city, 2015's To Pimp A Butterfly and, obviously, DAMN.. Lamar won't be taking to the stage solo, with Las Vegas rapper Baby Keem, aka Lamar's cousin, in support on all dates. Just like his last trip Down Under — when he also headlined Splendour in the Grass — expect tickets to get snapped up quicker than Lamar can bust out lyrics when they go on sale at 12pm local time on Friday, May 20. Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers literally just dropped yesterday, Friday, May 13, too, so there's your soundtrack sorted while you celebrate the tour news. KENDRICK LAMAR'S 'THE BIG STEPPERS' 2022 TOUR AUSTRALIA AND NZ DATES: Thursday, December 1 — RAC Arena, Perth Sunday, December 4 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Thursday, December 8 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Monday, December 12 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Friday, December 16 — Spark Arena, Auckland Kendrick Lamar's 'The Big Steppers' tour will hit Australia and New Zealand in December. Tickets go onsale online at 12pm local time on Friday, May 20. Top image: Renell Medrano (@renellaice).
Since '50s-inspired bar Hinky Dinks closed late last year, there's been a gaping, cocktail-sized hole at 185 Darlinghurst Road. But, the good news is, it's now been filled — and with some high-level Sydney hospitality personnel, no less. The team behind Darlinghurst favourite Buffalo Dining Club have well and truly taken over the space, launching a sleek new wine parlour Johnny Fishbone last night. The name embossed in shimmering gold lettering on the wooden door is sign enough that the new tenants have changed the whole vibe of the space — inside, the chequered floor has been replaced with understated tiling, the red features have been axed in favour of deep greens and timber, and a long marble-topped wooden bar is the main centrepiece. There's a solid wine wall too, which should tell you a lot about their offering. As its pedigree would suggest, Johnny is also turning out some top-notch bar food. Choose from seafood snacks like oysters, ceviche and sardines with tomato jam or bigger options such as the fish with cured fennel and saffron and the spatchcock with paprika brandy. Johnny Fishbone is open from 5pm Tuesday and Sunday, so you can head there and grab a seat at the bar tonight — although, if it's anything like Buffalo Dining Club, it could be hard to get one. Johnny Fishbone is now open at 185 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst. For more information, visit johnnyfishbone.com.au. By Jasmine Crittenden and Lauren Vadnjal. Images: Steven Woodburn.
The difference between a finely tailored suit and the off-the-rack variety is like chalk and cheese. Zink & Sons is for the discerning customer who knows their coattails from their cufflinks. The tailoring business, set in a gorgeous art deco building on Oxford Street, has operated for six generations — since 1895 in fact — and it has seen many changes in the area over the years. This longevity comes down to the quality of bespoke suits and shirts, made for both business and special occasions. A custom-fitted suit can make the wearer feel like a king and that's exactly how you'll be treated at this Darlinghurst institution from the moment you enter the store. Images: Cassandra Hannagan [caption id="attachment_779028" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption]
Glitchy abstractions, ambiguous beats and Nintendo bleeps. Sounds like you? Sounds like Xiu Xiu. Where some people paint still-life, watercolour canvases to express a part of their identity, lead singer Jamie Stewart uses dark words and a stormy demeanour (mashed in with experimental rock) to express his. Stewart may be a little bit angry, but it’s not personal — instability seems to be his driving force (the band has had four lineup changes in eight years), and it's clearly reflected in the spontaneity of sounds on Xiu Xiu’s seven-spinner discography. Stewart is now joined by Angela Seo for Xiu Xiu’s latest release, Dear God, I Hate Myself (2010), which has been described by their label, Popfrenzy, as "more overtly poppy and electronic". The making of the album included Nintendo sounds, a vibraphone, tenor recorder, optigan, desk bells, a Game Boy, harmonium, chamberlain — even a celeste. Joining them on the September tour, also from NYC, are electronic fringe-dwellers High Places and Sydney's experimental-pop darlings, Kyu. All three groups will be playing new material. These will certainly be high-calibre performances, but what I want to know is (1) will Jamie Stewart be as angry as I'm afraid he is in concert; and (2) how will they play all those instruments? There’s only one way to find out. Image by Huy Ngo.
This April, an unlikely duo will emerge to bring Sydneysiders a new sarnie worthy of your finest hangover. Two city favourites, PappaRich and Belles Hot Chicken, are teaming up to create a Malaysian-style fried chicken mashup, which will be available from April 9 through June 18 at PappaRich locations along Liverpool Street and Broadway. On offer for both lunch and dinner, this spiced-up sandwich features Belles' signature fried chicken, plus Malaysian slaw with coconut vinegar and a collab 'Pappa Mac' sauce, all between PappaRich's toasted Hainan-style sweet bread. Belles' chef Morgan McGlone is the man behind this creation, so you know it'll be damn tasty. The sandwich costs $13.90 and will be available for lunch and dinner from April 9 until June 18 at PappaRich locations at 185 Broadway, Ultimate and 57 Liverpool Street, CBD.
Regardless of whether you find the block-sized World Square in the CBD more of an eyesore than shopping hub and apartment block extravaganza, you'll be interested to know the six or so-week-old addition, Kingswood Coffee, not only has your coffee needs covered but also offers a little nod to Sydney's past that might just keep those in the former camp happy. In a nutshell, back in the '80s, World Square somewhat controversially took the place of what was once the largest department store in Sydney (and at one point, the world), Anthony Hordern & Sons. Fifty-two acres of retail space, this back-then gargantuan commercial epicentre sported aesthetics of heritage-listed proportions that sadly went the way of many a lost architectural treasure. Fortunately, Kingswood's owner Mikey Jordan (ex-Manly's Barefoot Coffee Traders) isn't one to let beauty be forgotten. With an interior designed by Tamsin Johnson (Mr. Moustache, Mr Tipply's), Kingswood is a polished brass and wood delight, offering a small area inside to order from the two-man La Marzocco coffee machine, lit by four dimple-tipped opaque globes all above royal blue hexagonal tiles. Contemporary elements aren't forgotten either, with Sydney-invented Juggler taps automatically pouring out milk quick sharp, as well as saving approximately 80 percent on plastic waste. But of course, the main attraction here isn't the fit-out but the coffee. It labels itself as a 'specialty coffee shop', and the speciality here seems to be collaboration. The smooth and delicious house blend for dairy-based coffees is from Melbourne's Sensory Lab and uses one Columbian and two Brazilian beans (available to purchase by the bag at $50), while black coffee drinkers can savour the tastes of monthly rotating concoctions: this month is Melbourne-based Proud Mary ($60 per bag), while next month sees Sydney's Sample step up to the plate. Tea drinkers have a number of Tea Craft bags to choose from, Chai-lovers can enjoy an eight-hour brewed homemade creation and, according to Jordan, cold drip will be making its way over in time for summer. If you're looking for something a little naughty, opt for a mocha, combining milk and espresso with melted Belcolade Belgian chocolate, which, thankfully, is just the right level of sweetness not to overpower the underlining yummy coffee taste. But of course, if chocolate is more your thing, there are milkshakes and waffles all just waiting to be smothered in the stuff. Food-wise the selection is limited, but again collaboration reigns supreme, with pastries sourced from Leichhardt's Penny Fours, cronuts from Brewtown Newtown and sourdough from Brickfields in Chippendale. Filling for said sourdough sarnies comes from Alexandria's Salt Meats Cheese. All in all, while this place might only be a tiny takeaway joint tucked away in a monumental modern Sydney icon and surrounded by countless clothing giants and heartless chains, it's this appreciation of the past and, more importantly, a decent cup of coffee that has already made Kingswood a local for residents and business folk alike. Not bad going at all, we say.
Tucked along the coast close to the Victorian-South Australian border, and just beyond the westernmost end of the Great Ocean Road, Nelson is a charming country town brimming with incredible outdoor adventures. With its tight-knit local community and hardy surrounding wilderness, this is one spot to put on your list if you're looking for top-notch hiking, surfing, fishing and more. Nelson might not be considered the end of the earth, but its veritable collection of stunning landscapes means you and your pals will struggle to find a place with better access to nature. Whether you get your kicks from underground walkways, remote inland hikes or riding rugged waves, we've teamed up with Wild Turkey to present a collection of experiences in this thriving border town where unforgettable memories are guaranteed. [caption id="attachment_841188" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] EXPLORE THE DRAMATIC PRINCESS MARGARET ROSE CAVE Situated along the banks of the Glenelg River, the Princess Margaret Rose Cave sees daring travellers descend into a subterranean cavern where calcite formations have ebbed and flowed over the last 700,000 years. Opened in 1940 as one of Australia's first show caves, the limestone lair is one of Nelson's standout destinations. Make the most of your time underground with a guided tour, during which you'll have 45 minutes to wander illuminated walkways flanked by crystalline stalagmites and stalactites that have expanded to over six metres in length. If you can't get enough of your surrounds, the Princess Margaret Rose Cave is located next to a picturesque campground, where you can find close encounters with native wildlife among a eucalypt forest. [caption id="attachment_841190" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] TACKLE THE GREAT SOUTH WEST WALK AND SPEND A NIGHT BENEATH THE STARS A staggering amount of rewarding hikes are located along the Great Ocean Road's 243 kilometres, but few are as impressive as the Great South West Walk. While the total distance of this epic journey through Victoria's western coast takes around 12 days to complete — the whole trail is longer than the Great Ocean Road itself — choosing a section or two to tackle is a far more realistic prospect for most. Across full-day hikes and laidback loops, the path meanders from the coastal edge inland through Cobboboonee National Park and side-by-side with the Glenelg River, meaning you'll see both lush forests and idyllic seaside villages. If you're looking to really connect with nature, pack a tent and set yourself up at one of the 14 well-maintained campsites along the way, which provide fitting amenities for an overnight stay. [caption id="attachment_843921" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] SEE WHERE THE RIVER MEETS THE OCEAN AT DISCOVERY BAY ESTUARY BEACH Exploring scenic beaches is one of the main reasons to cruise Victoria's western fringe. Discovery Bay Estuary Beach is a particularly beautiful highlight, as the meeting point of the Glenelg River and the rugged Southern Ocean. And whether you want to take it easy on the river side or test your mettle on the ocean side, the two kilometres of sandy shoreline means that the swimming and surfing potential is virtually endless. Fair warning: the beach isn't patrolled by lifesavers so be sure you know what you're doing before you set off. Situated about a five-minute drive from the centre of Nelson, this beach is also beloved for its fishing, with local anglers heading out by boat or seeing what they can catch in the shallows. Plus, the surrounding wetlands and sand dunes provide critical ecosystems for hundreds of rare waterbirds and plant species, ensuring you feel that enchanting connection with nature. [caption id="attachment_841194" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] SURF THE SOUTHERN OCEAN AT DISCOVERY BAY COASTAL PARK For even more surfing possibilities, heading further south to the Discovery Bay Coastal Park leaves you totally spoilt for choice. Spanning nearly 26,000 acres from Cape Nelson to the South Australian border, this spectacular national park welcomes you to soak up the diverse landscape from end to end. While you might feel the urge to dive in anywhere, several top-quality breaks present the best waves. Crumpet Beach and Blacknose Point are ideal for newbies, while Descartes is where more experienced surfers test their skills. Meanwhile, Discovery Bay Marine National Park offers outstanding underwater ecosystems, so be sure to pack your snorkelling gear. There's plenty happening inland, too, thanks to soaring coastal cliffs, impressive sand dunes and idyllic freshwater lakes and swamps. Feel free to take your time here — there are several vantage points within the park where you can catch one of the best sunsets in Victoria. [caption id="attachment_841197" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] HEAD TO CAPE BRIDGEWATER FOR OTHERWORLDLY ROCK FORMATIONS Set in an ancient volcanic crater, Cape Bridgewater's otherworldly landscape is perfect for road trippers seeking a unique adventure. Its jagged coastline is home to some of Victoria's highest clifftops, and the countryside beyond overflows with freshwater lakes that are excellent for fishing and water skiing. However, the coast remains the main attraction, with the Bridgewater Blowholes helping travellers get up close to rock formations forged in the basalt and scoria rock over millions of years. The cape is also well-known for its population of fur seals, with a dedicated viewing platform providing a glimpse of this year-round colony situated on the ocean edge. [caption id="attachment_843922" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elliot Kramer[/caption] FISH AND PADDLE ALONG THE GLENELG RIVER Spanning 350 kilometres from Nelson's Discovery Bay to the lofty Southern Grampians, the Glenelg River boasts a thriving biosphere that makes for a captivating day on the water. With the waterway considered one of the state's top fishing destinations, you can cast a line for flathead, morwong and silver sweep throughout the year. If you decide to explore the inland reaches of the Glenelg River, Dartmoor is great for a pitstop. Here, Paestan Canoe Hire provides everything you need for a peaceful paddle beneath the shaded banks. For something a little different, tee off for a round at Dartmoor Golf Club or feast on classic pub grub at the Dartmoor Hotel Motel. Find out more about Wild Turkey's Discovery Series at the website. Top image: Visit Victoria
Visit the old-school ticket box at the Elizabeth Street Bus Shelter next month and you'll score tickets for a very different kind of journey; namely, a ride to flavour town courtesy of Nutie's pop-up dessert bar. Best known for its gluten-free doughnuts and inventive plant-based sweet treats, the crew is teaming up with the soon-to-open Coffee Press Cafe for a tasty, two-week stint, where it'll dish up some of its most impressive all-vegan, all-GF desserts yet. The pop-up is set to run from October 5 to 20, opening for post-dinner dessert cravings and caffeine hits, from 5-10pm daily. One brand-new creation making an appearance is Nutie's vegan (and gluten free) cookie dough brownie sundae — a triple-decker fudge brownie teamed with cookie chunks, vanilla cookie dough bombs, rich choc fudge sauce and a hearty scoop of vegan ice cream. There'll also be (vegan and GF) s'mores torched to order, either featuring a classic choc fudge ice cream sandwich, or loaded with boozy cherry compote to create an indulgent black forest version. They'll sit alongside long-time Nutie favourites like baked doughnuts and those outrageous Golden Gaytime doughnut bombs. The pop-up's conveniently (or inconveniently, if you have trouble saying no) located right near the Night Noodle Markets. Keep it in mind for your post-dumpling dessert fix. Nutie Late-Night Dessert Bar will be open every night from 5–10pm.
The CBD's leafy oasis Taylor's Rooftop now has your Thursdays sorted with its new Tacos, Tequila & Throwbacks night. So, if you were looking for your next fun date spot or searching for a new after-work watering hole, head on up the stairs to bust a move at this margarita-fuelled party. Kicking off on Thursday, March 5, this party will be celebrating with free tacos and margaritas — the venue is giving away 100 of each from 6pm, with the party raging on till late. If you want in, be sure to RSVP for free here. The sky-high fiesta will happen every Thursday, with $5 tacos, $10 margs and $25 Corona buckets available all night long. It'll all be backed with 90s and early 2000s bangers. Think the likes of Britney Spears, Kylie Minogue and Armand Van Helden — and, yes, singing along at the top of your lungs is encouraged. And, thanks to the rooftop's retractable roof, this party will happen come rain or shine every week. Tacos, Tequila & Throwbacks kicks off with a launch party on Thursday, March 5 and will occur every Thursday from 6pm–late.
It is wonderful being able to watch two artists collaborate over a period of years and through various projects, developing both as individuals and equally creating their own shared practice. Helen Herbertson and Ben Cobham’s creative partnership is a perfect example, and they are bringing two of their new works to CarriageWorks this month.Running as twin shows, Morphia Series and Sunstruck – a premonition of events offer Herbertson and Cobham’s exploration of dream and memory. Morpheus, Greek god of dreams, entices us with his undulating distortion of the waking mind, while solarised visions of worlds been and becoming crackle between performer and audience.Poetry – linguistic, physical, aural and visual – guides Herbertson and Cobham’s joint practice, and theirs is a relationship that has sold out shows across the country. Be quick to grab your place for these performances, as audience numbers are strictly limited.Photo by Jeff Busby
A shadowy old house. A strange little boy. An unexplained object that won't go away. There's nothing particularly revolutionary about The Babadook; it's simply a matter of execution. Taking time-honoured plot points that in lesser hands would seem cliched, Queensland director Jennifer Kent has managed to craft a film that feels both entirely original and utterly terrifying. Featuring both a gripping lead performance by Essie Davis and one of the most creepifying monsters to ever stalk your dreams, The Babadook sets a bar by which future local horror films will be measured. Davis plays Amelia, the overwhelmed, widowed mother of a seven-year-old problem child named Samuel (newcomer Noah Wiseman). A maladjusted and volatile lad with a penchant for producing homemade weapons, Sammy is quite the handful for his mum, who's still haunted by the trauma of losing her husband in a car-wreck while driving to the hospital on the night of her Samuel's birth. One evening, while putting Samuel to bed, Amelia finds a mysterious new book on the boy's bookshelf. Written in Dr Seuss-style rhymes, the story it tells is of a strange, spindly-fingered creature named Mr Babadook. Although innocent at first, the stanzas grow steadily more menacing. Of course, by the time Amelia clues on to the fact that this might not be suitable bedtime reading, the damage has already been done. In an age when 'scary' is so often mistaken for 'bloody', Kent gives us a reminder of the power of anticipation. With next to zero onscreen violence, The Babadook is the kind of slow-burn horror movie that gets under your skin and raises the hairs on your neck; the kind of horror movie that has you bracing yourself for the next scare yet still catches you off guard when the monster finally rears its ugly head. A stop-frame creation that lurks in the shadows, the eponymous Babadook moves with a slithering unreality that seems to freeze the blood vessels in your brain. You know he can't exist. And yet he does. The terror comes also from our empathy with Amelia and Sam. Present in just about every scene, Davis is phenomenally good as Amelia, a worn-down figure who becomes increasingly erratic, and then monstrous herself, as the Babadook's presence grows stronger. More than once, the film implies that the creature may just be a product of Amelia's frazzled mind, pushed to the brink by the death of her husband and the constant demands of her son. In truth, that might be the most frightening suggestion of all. Kent doesn't quite stick the landing, unfortunately. Ambiguity is one thing, but the ending here is just plain unclear. Even so, an unsatisfying coda doesn't undo what came before. To anyone who can handle their heart in their throat, consider The Babadook highly recommended. To anyone who can handle their heart in their throat, consider The Babadook highly recommended. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IuQELNFtr-g
Elisabeth Moss has been on our screens for more than three decades, dating back to when she was just eight years old — and she's amassed an enviable resume that spans everything from The West Wing and Mad Men through to Girl, Interrupted and The French Dispatch over that time. But of late, from Jane Campion's Top of the Lake onwards, the two-time Emmy-winner has been loving thrillers. So, it should come as no surprise that her latest series falls firmly within the genre. Joining Moss' resume after The Handmaid's Tale, Queen of Earth, High-Rise, Us, Shirley and The Invisible Man, Shining Girls sees the acclaimed actor play the victim of a violent attack — a traumatic assault that saw her character, Kirby Mazrachi, put her plans to be a journalist on hold. Now, she's a newspaper archivist in Chicago, but her old terrors and dreams both get pushed to the fore when she hears about a new murder with similarities to her own incident. Soon, she's teaming up with experienced reporter Dan Velazquez (Wagner Moura, Narcos) to hunt down the culprit. That's just part of the new Apple TV+ show's setup, however. Also a key aspect of the story, as the just-dropped trailer shows: a blurring of reality, which unsurprisingly gets in the way of Kirby's quest. In the first sneak peek, she thinks she has a cat, then suddenly she has a pet dog instead — and that's just the beginning of the tale's mind-bending chaos. Where the show goes from there will start to be revealed from Friday, April 29, with the first three episodes dropping all at once, then future instalments arriving weekly. And if it all sounds familiar, that's probably because you've read Lauren Beukes' best-selling novel of the same name. Moss executive produces as well, and is also joined on-screen by Phillipa Soo (Hamilton), Amy Brenneman (Goliath) and Jamie Bell (Rocketman). Of course, the latter has been part of the film and TV landscape since he was a kid, too. Here, though, in a trailer that's both twisty and eerie — and instantly gripping — he looks worlds removed from Billy Elliott. Been obsessing over Apple TV+'s exceptional Severance lately? This might help fill the gap when its first season wraps up. And, obviously, it'll help tide you over until Moss' The Handmaid's Tale comes back as well. Check out the trailer for Shining Girls below: Shining Girls will start streaming Down Under via Apple TV+ on Friday, April 29.
Mungo isn't a lake, but it was one tens of thousands of years ago. And it's still one of the most important places to see in Australia because it's where the oldest human remains were found, being those of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady, who lived at least 40,000 years ago. If you're up for a road trip, take the 70-kilometre Mungo Track. There are also plenty of walking trails, including the ten-kilometre Zanci Pastoral Heritage Loop and a bunch of short strolls to lookouts and significant spots. Images: Destination NSW
