Come mid-2022, if you're in the Sydney CBD, you've got a hankering for a burger and your tastebuds are particularly tempted by US burg joints, you'll have options. It's been raining American burger chains around town of late, with both Five Guys and Wahlburgers starting to sling their wares — and now, after initially launching in Penrith in 2021, Five Guys has finally confirmed that its first inner-city outpost is on the way. This stomach rumble-inducing news will have burger-lovers heading to 383 George Street, which is where Five Guys will be serving up burgs, fries, hotdogs, sandwiches and shakes before the second half of 2022 hits. The new store doesn't yet have an exact opening date, but it'll be calling the heritage-listed Spiden House home. More shops are in the works, too, in both Sydney and Melbourne before 2022 is out. Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group, aka the folks behind The Meat & Wine Co, Hunter & Barrel, 6 Head, Ribs & Burgers, Italian Street Kitchen and Butcher and the Farmer, hold the master franchise for Five Guys in Australia and New Zealand — and while it hasn't revealed where more burgs will be coming everyone's ways just yet, setting up plenty of locations has always been the company's plan. When news that Five Guys was launching stores Down Under first hit in 2020, at least 20 spots were earmarked for Australia alone. Decked out in a red-and-white colour scheme, the popular chain already has more than 1600 stores to its name across America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia since starting back in 1986 in the Washington, DC area — and has amassed quite the reputation in the process. Even given the number of big-name US burger chains with hefty followings, such as Shake Shack and In-N-Out, it stands out. If you're wondering why, the fact that its made-to-order burgers skew in the classic rather than oversized, jam-packed direction is one good reason. These burgs come with two hand-formed patties on toasted buns, with your choice of free toppings (including pickles, grilled mushrooms and jalapeños). Five Guys also does bacon cheeseburgers that add two strips of bacon and two slices of Kraft American cheese as well. Prefer hotdogs, sandwiches (in veggie, cheese or BLT varieties), hand-cut fries (with or without Cajun spices) and vanilla milkshakes? They're all on the menu as well. Don't go thinking that the latter are boring, though — you can add bacon, bananas, peanut butter, salted caramel and even Oreo pieces to your design-your-own beverage. As anyone with allergies should note, though, Five Guys only cooks its fries in peanut oil. Find Five Guys' second Sydney store at 383 George Street, Sydney, from sometime mid-2022 — we'll update you when an exact opening date is announced.
If you've always wanted to audition for Australian Idol but never worked up the courage, you can now let your show-stopping singing voice ring out over Potts Point. Diana, a Korean-Chinese restaurant, has added its name to the growing list of new Potts Point venues, opening on Macleay Street with late-night open mic karaoke every weekend. Diana is the brainchild of owner Sammy Jeon and is based on his cult-favourite regional karaoke bar, Mr Lim. Located in Orange, Mr Lim is one of four venues Jeon owns in regional NSW. After moving from a small Korean island to Griffith to pick apples, Jeon met winemakers Phillip and Diana Shaw. His time spent with the Shaw family sparked his love of food and wine, and has inspired the name of this new restaurant. "When I moved to Orange, I worked in the vineyard at Philip Shaw wines and had dinner cooked by the family most days for two and a half years," Jeon said. "The time spent with the Shaw family, and in particular Diana, was a very memorable experience and inspired the name for Diana Potts Point. Diana even came to visit me in Korea once, and although wasn't keen on the cuisine at first (she just wanted chips!), I managed to covert her through my cooking." Jeon is now bringing the homely atmosphere of his regional outposts to the heart of Sydney, with Diana opening in the former digs of Kylie Kwong's Billy Kwong. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, you can head to Diana for its combination of Korean and Chinese cuisine, sans karaoke. Throughout the week, you'll find standout dishes on the menu such as a sashimi salad that combines salmon, tuna, kingfish and abalone with a crisp collection of fresh vegetables ($39); or twice-cooked spicy Korean fried chicken, seasoned with Korean chilli paste, spring onion and almonds ($28). As you continue down the menu, you'll come across house-made kimchi, served solo ($7), wrapped in pork dumplings ($16 for three) or fired and placed atop a bowl of rice ($18). Come 9.30pm on Friday and Saturday nights, the bar comes alive as diners take to the mic and sing to their hearts' desire. Unlike local-favourite karaoke bars like Goros or Ding Dong Dang (RIP), Diana doesn't have secluded rooms for you to book out with your friends, rather, the microphone and a karaoke system sits right in front of the dining area where visitors can take turns jumping up and busting out their favourite tunes. If you need some liquid courage in order to perform 'Purple Rain' to a restaurant full of people, Diana luckily has an extensive wine list with plenty of choice selections from Jeon's time in regional NSW. "It's jam-packed full of wines from Orange to remind me of my Australian hometown and to repay all the support that I have received during the years from the community," Jeon says.
Your local council nursery is always a good place to visit when purchasing indoor (and outdoor) plants for your home. The Randwick Community outpost is interested in filling your garden with plants that are endemic to the local area — so it's a great place to pick up natives, exotic species and cheap saplings. This also means the plants you'll get here will usually grow well in your yard soil, because they're suited to the conditions of the area. Some local plants available at the moment include Sydney golden wattles, lilly pilly, banksia and fringe myrtle. It's been open to the public for over 50 years, too, so you know you're getting some expert advice along the way.
With all of the natural beauty surrounding you in Barrington Tops, it can be hard to get a sense of the region as a whole. So it's definitely worth your while to check out one, if not several, of the many scenic lookouts that offer an all-encompassing view of this stunning landscape. Careys Peak is at the end of an invigorating walking track that will take you through heavily wooded country before giving way to a peak in the Williams Range, where you can survey the ground you've just traversed from a cracking lookout spot. If you're after more than one pit stop, Devils Hole Lookout is a cracker, as is Thunderbolts.
Hugo Muecke and Holly Greenwood are Sydney-based artists who visualise the Australian landscape in creative ways — from beaches to bushland, McDonald's drive-thrus to marsupials. Their upcoming week-long exhibition Bush Towns at Darlington's Sheffer Gallery will showcase a variety of their recent work that attempts to piece together a rather odd but all-too-familiar national identity. From linear drawings to earthy painterly hues, their contrasting yet complimentary practices aim to capture the beauty, irony and imperfections of the little things that make Australia one of a kind.
Since Australia's COVID-19 restrictions started coming into place, everyone's weekend brunch plans have changed significantly. If you're still hankering for cafe-style smashed avo on toast, though, Sydney's Sonoma Bakery is here to help — all thanks to its new 'smashed avo at home' brunch packs. Teaming up with Australian Avocados, the bakery and cafe chain's packs come with a half-loaf of Sonoma's signature miche bread, two avocados and one small tub of spicy seed mix. You've had smashed avo enough to know what you need to do next — and you can now do just that in your own kitchen. The packs cost $15, and can be ordered via Bopple, with Sonoma open from 7am–2pm every day over the Easter long weekend. If you spend $20 in total on your order and you live within four kilometres of one of Sonoma's bakeries in Alexandria, Bondi, Leichhardt, Manly, Rose Bay, Waterloo and Woollahra, you can get it delivered for $10, too. Otherwise, you can also head in and pick up your brunch staple. While we all know what you'll be getting out of Sonoma's 'smashed avo at home' brunch packs (it's right there in the name), your purchase will also help support Aussie avocado farmers. Usually, they'd have no trouble supplying their fruit to the restaurant and cafe industry; however with folks now staying home and eateries only open for takeaway and delivery — if at all — that's definitely not the case at present. For further information about Sonoma Bakery's 'smashed avo at home' brunch packs, visit the chain's website. CORRECTION: APRIL 14, 2020 — This article previously stated that delivery of Sonoma's smashed avo at home packs was free, this is incorrect. Delivery is $10 and available within a four-kilometre radius. The above article has been updated to reflect this. If you're choosing to go out and support local businesses, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health.
Decking the halls with boughs of holly — or whatever other jolly decorations you like — is a standard way to celebrate Christmas. Enjoying a holiday in a caravan decked out like a seasonal dream? That isn't, but you can add it to your list this November. You will need to adore the merriest time of year, obviously. And you'll have to be keen to take an early festive getaway in New South Wales as well. Your Christmas tree-, fairy light- and festive ornament-filled home away from home? Tillie, aka the Christmas caravan, which is available to book via RV rental site Camplify. The service set up shop in Australia a few years back now, and has treated holidaymakers to gin-themed caravans before — but now it's time to take a getaway that's all about Christmas. A vintage caravan that leans into its retro vibe, Tillie sleeps four, and is available at your choice of three Reflections Holiday Parks in NSW: Hawks Nest, Jimmys Beach and Seal Rocks. Whichever one you pick, you'll be paying $125 per night, and the van will be delivered to your chosen site — all decorated, of course — for you. Inside the van, expect those ornaments aplenty. Outside — where it's recommended that you kick back as the sun goes down — fairy lights and Christmas garlands will be wrapped around Tillie. And, you'll even find a wreath on the back of the van, too. No one will be saying "bah, humbug!" here, clearly. You do need to commit to a four-night stay at a minimum, so no need to rush your festive holiday. Also, there's an $80 service fee — and while delivering Tillie to Hawks Nest and Jimmys Beach is free, there's an extra $100 cost for Seal Rocks. All three sites sit along the coast, turning your time with Tillie into a beachy Christmas jaunt. At Hawks Nest, you'll find yourself between Bennett's Beach and the village of Hawks Nest, and also in the vicinity of Port Stephens and Nelson Bay. At Jimmys Beach, you'll be in NSW's Great Lakes region. And at Seal Rocks, a mid-north coast escape awaits. To book Tillie throughout November — with prices from $125 per day, and rentals available at Reflections Holiday Parks at Hawks Nest, Jimmys Beach and Seal Rocks — visit the Camplify website. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Closing night at the Beck's Festival Bar is going to be mad. The phenomenal Burden brothers are bringing their techno genius Octave One to Australia for the very first time. Hailing from Detroit, Octave One are techno innovators. Having toured the globe for over 20 years with DJ set and live shows and through their own 430 West label, the Burden brothers know their stuff — they've collaborated with Underground Resistance, remixed the likes of Massive Attack and had their most popular release Blackwater included on over 30 compilation albums. Octave One's 'deep vocal house and slammin' techno grooves' will have the Beck's Bar kicking on 'till the very last beat.
Charisma forgives many sins. In film, especially, it can gloss over just about everything, from a dull storyline to glaring plot holes. Even terrible dialogue can be salvaged if the person delivering it has enough personality. And right now in Hollywood, there is no greater force of personality than Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The man is a strategic reserve of charm, sweating out more charisma in a 20 minute gym session than most people possess in a lifetime. Alas, not even he can save Rampage. Based on the 1986 arcade game of the same name, Rampage is another entry into the Big Dumb Fun genre – except for the fact that it's critically lacking in Fun. Like the source material, the movie's story centres upon several animals being exposed to a genetic editing vapour that rapidly transforms them into giant, city-destroying monsters. Chief amongst these creatures is George, an albino gorilla rescued from poachers and raised by his protector, Davis Okoye (Johnson). It is during this duo's few quiet, tender moments that Rampage is at its strongest, giving the story heart and Johnson his only decent lines ("The poachers shot at us, and missed. I shot back…and didn't"). Mostly, though, Rampage is a movie about people shooting at massive monsters and those monsters fighting back. To be clear, blockbusters like this have their place. Kong: Skull Island, the original Pacific Rim and the most recent Godzilla film are three fine examples of the genre done right. They each embraced their absurd premise and treated it with the same care and consideration you'd see in a period drama, offering their audiences fleshed-out characters, coherent stories and dialogue that does more than simply tell us what's happening (or what's about to). In Rampage, on the other hand, nearly every piece of key character information is literally read off a tablet in a single scene, while the scientific and technical jargon is crammed into a few ludicrous sentences that no human would ever actually say. It's the laziest form of writing and embraces every cliché in the book, from TV news reports conveniently filling in plot gaps, to the absurd corporate villains spending most of their time simply explaining to each other what they're doing as if all of their years of prior planning somehow came together without an actual discussion. In the lead role, Johnson does his level best to keep things grounded, but finds himself consistently hampered by braindead dialogue that rarely rises above "dude this" or "bro that" (at one point he actually gets shot in the gut only to reappear moments later and pass it off by suggesting it "probably missed all of his vital organs". He then comfortably pilots a helicopter, flirts with the girl and sprints through collapsing skyscrapers). Naomie Harris, for her part, has one sincere bit of backstory that briefly elevates the plot into something compelling, while Jeffrey Dean Morgan (another charismatic powerhouse) can't be accused of holding back in his wildly over-the-top performance as the Texan cowboy turned secret government agent. Their combined scenes at least give Rampage some degree of credibility – although whatever good work they do is fast undone by Malin Åkerman and Jake Lacy as the inexplicably villainous villains high up in their penthouse office. Rampage is a movie about big things tearing down buildings, and that's fine. But unless you're made to actually care about the people inside those buildings, then the stakes are about the same as watching toddlers stomp on sand-castles: pretty soon you just want the tide to come in and wash it all away. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coOKvrsmQiI
Maya Hawke. A mall. Retro clothes and tunes aplenty. Combine the three, and that's how Fear Street Part 1: 1994 opens. That deja vu you're feeling? That's because they all played a significant part in the third season of Stranger Things, too — but while Hawke is still popping up on Netflix here, she definitely isn't in Hawkins, Indiana anymore. Instead, her character Heather is working at a mall in Shadyside, Ohio. As the movie's moniker makes plain, the year is 1994, so Hawke has jumped into a new decade. Heather is doing the closing shift at a book store, and viewers first see her gushing over an eerie title, fittingly — only for the customer that's buying it to proclaim: "it's trash; lowbrow horror". Fear Street Part 1: 1994 might begin with a wink to its source material — that'd be the teen-oriented RL Stine horror books that hit shelves between 1989–2005 — but that isn't the only nod it serves up. Directed and co-written by Leigh Janiak (Honeymoon), this slasher flick splashes its debts to everything from Halloween to Scream across every frame. That's part of the package, as is plenty of blood, gore, bumps and jumps. The end result is unmistakably formulaic, but aptly so; every novel in Stine's series also earned the same description, as did every Goosebumps book as well. As frequently happens in the opening scenes of horror flicks, Heather's day quickly takes a turn for the worse. That's a rather standard outcome when there's a masked killer on the loose. The next day, the town is shocked and scandalised, although not as much as it really should be — because, unlike its wealthier neighbour town Sunnyvale, Shadyside has a history of these kinds of terrible events. Conspiracy buff Josh (Benjamin Flores Jr, Your Honor) likes to chat about these sinister happenings online. The town even has a witch's curse in its past, too, so there's plenty to discuss in his 90s-era chat rooms. His older sister Deena (Kiana Madeira, Giant Little Ones) doesn't put any stock in the local ghost stories — she has dramas with her ex Sam (Olivia Scott Welch, Unbelievable) to worry about instead — but then the killer heads her way, because of course that's what happens. From there, Fear Street Part 1: 1994 does two things: follows Deena and her friends as they attempt to evade an ancient evil that's plagued the town for centuries, and sets up a trilogy that'll continue in Fear Street Part 2: 1978 and Fear Street Part 3: 1666. A different film will hit Netflix across the first three Fridays in July to add some retro scares to your winter — with Part 2 taking its cues from Friday the 13th by heading to a summer camp in its titular year, and Part 3 pondering the origins of Shadyside's curse in the 1600s. And yes, in its noticeably by-the-numbers fashion, this page-to-screen series thankfully fares better than Goosebumps did when it made the same jump. Check out the trailer for Fear Street Part 1: 1994 below: Fear Street Part 1: 1994 will be available to stream via Netflix on Friday, July 2 — followed by Fear Street Part 2: 1978 on Friday, July 9 and Fear Street Part 3: 1666 on Friday, July 16. Top image: Netflix
When the 21st Biennale spreads its artistic arsenal across seven venues in Sydney this March, we plan to be ready. 70 artists from across the globe will be exhibiting their eclectic works under the theme of Superposition: Equilibrium & Engagement in celebration of the 45th anniversary of this explosive festival. In partnership with the Biennale of Sydney, we've curated three different itineraries to arm you with everything you need to navigate this vast and varied program. But let's not forget that an inquisitive, creative-focused brain needs nourishment, so we've thrown in some top food and drink joints nearby as well. The Biennale and the Sydney Opera House have been firm friends since the first festival in 1973, and this year, it's where the magic is set to begin again. Chinese dissident artist Ai Weiwei will present his keynote speech here, and the iconic building will be the focus of the innovative events within. This itinerary also takes in the Art Gallery of NSW and ends in Woolloomooloo at Artspace in the historic Gunnery Building. THE OPERA HOUSE [caption id="attachment_646890" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ai Weiwei in Human Flow, 2017.[/caption] AI WEIWEI'S KEYNOTE SPEECH Known for his gutsy fusion of art and activism, Ai Weiwei is one of the world's most spoken about artists and a huge coup for the 21st Biennale. In conversation with festival director Mami Kataoka, Weiwei will speak about how his work has changed since he left his native China, his artistic focus on forced migration and much more. A screening of his Oscar-nominated newest film Human Flow will follow, which features 23 countries shot over one year in a powerful exploration of the refugee crisis that is gripping the globe. [caption id="attachment_654211" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rayanne Tabet: The Dead Sea in Three Parts, 2013. Photograph: Sebastiano Pellion.[/caption] WORKS BY OLIVER BEER AND RAYANNE TABET In a series of original performances, Sydney's most iconic building will become part of the art program — in rather unusual ways. British artist Oliver Beer has utilised his orchestral training and has been researching the building with a peculiar method: by getting the building to sing back to him. He will enlist local vocalists to sing at the building in spaces where it will then sing back to them. And those who love a good mystery can join Lebanese architect Rayyane Tabet as he tells some of the unresolved mysteries of the Sydney Opera House through performance. PITSTOP: POOLSIDE CAFE AT ANDREW (BOY) CHARLTON POOL After a saunter along the water's edge and through the Royal Botanic Gardens — keeping an eye out for the rare White Pied Currawong along the way — take a poolside pitstop for a quick refresh. A swim, a smoothie or a sneaky sip of wine may be just the trick to keep your artful eye astute. The menu at Poolside Cafe is fresh and appetising and served alongside some killer views. Tucked into the back of The Domain, the pool boasts sights of the Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, and from here, you'll only have a mere hop and skip along a leafy path to your next stop at the Art Gallery of NSW. ART GALLERY OF NSW [caption id="attachment_654219" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Semiconductor: Earthworks, 2016. Photograph: Semiconductor.[/caption] THE BIENNALE ARCHIVE It may be the 21st Biennale, but given it is on every two years, it has been kickin' up the Sydney art dust for 45 years. (We're questioning the maths, too.) Either way, that's a lot of creative events and exhibitions, especially given its nature to expand out into many venues across the city. This year, the Art Gallery of NSW will house a fascinating archival retrospective on the history of the Biennale, showing off more than four decades of worldwide works that have come to Sydney. The venue is especially fitting for such a display, given the AGNSW first partnered with the Biennale in 1976. [caption id="attachment_654212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] CATPC (Congolese Plantation Workers art League) with Baloji and Renzo Martens: The ceremony celebrating the repatriation of the White Cube in Lusanga, 2017. Photograph: Thomas Nolf.[/caption] WORKS BY 17 ARTISTS 17 artists will be on display throughout the gallery. Painter and Wathaurung elder Marlene Gilson sheds light on the indigenous connection to famed historic events like the Eureka Stockade and Melbourne Cup. Cambodian art collective Sa Sa Art Projects takes a look into the history of Phnom Penh's destroyed White Building, while Indian artist N.S. Harsha is behind a twelve-metre-long mirrored display made of cardboard and teak elephants, sure to be an Instagram favourite. PITSTOP: FRISCO HOTEL As you make your way from AGNSW to Artspace, just around the corner from your next stop, you'll find this brightly renovated hotel with an ace balcony overlooking the street and with views of Woolloomooloo Wharf. Like any good nautical-styled bar, rum-based drinks keep the theme alive, with cheeky cocktails like the Sailors Mistress, Summer Fling and Frisco's Spiced Lemonade. Frisco Hotel has a casual menu of pub greats. And if you're just stopping in for a pre-show snack, you'll struggle to decide what to order with the grazing board, pumpkin arancini and chicken tulips with smoked chipotle aioli and slaw all on the menu. ARTSPACE [caption id="attachment_654214" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tiffany Chung: water dreamscape — the gangster named Jacky, the sleepers, and the exodus, 2017.[/caption] AI WEIWEI AND FOUR INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS You wouldn't be blamed for heading to Artspace on a direct mission to check out Ai Weiwei's Crystal Ball, focused on looking smack into the future we could be facing on the other side of our current humanitarian crisis. But while you're there, discover some other works created using polar media and by four other artists. There are the frescoes of Indian painter Tanya Goel, an embroidered textile map of diaspora by Vietnamese creative Tiffany Chung and video projects by Belgian artist Michael Borremans and China's Geng Xue who will present Poetry of Michelangelo, 2015. The 21st Biennale of Sydney sets up across the city on March 16 and will run until June 11. Find out more about the program here, and check out our guides from the MCA to Cockatoo Island and Haymarket's 4A to Carriageworks. Lead image: Ai Weiwei: Law of the Journey, 2017. Photograph: Ai Weiwei Studio.
If spending a couple of sunny days immersed in live tunes at Falls Festival is part of your summer ritual, we come bearing sad news: the end-of-year music fest won't take place over the 2023–24 season. The event's organisers have announced that they're sitting out this year after a chaotic period — including the festival's pandemic cancellations between 2019–2021, returning in a big way at the end of 2022 and beginning of 2023, and also hosting a Melbourne edition. While the fest's team has announced the event's hiatus as "a year off", whether it will return for the summer of 2024–25, what the festival might look like and where it will take place hasn't yet been revealed. "The past few years has seen unprecedented change in the live music space, both front of house and behind the scenes. While Falls' reboot in 2022–23 was full of amazing moments and we were thrilled to reconnect with our Falls fam, our team needs a break, so this year we'll take time off to enjoy the holiday period and allow some space to re-imagine how Falls will look in the future," said Secret Sounds co-CEO and Falls producer Jessica Ducrou, announcing the news. "We send huge love and appreciation to all our patrons for their ongoing support and for the great vibes they brought to the 2022–23 events. You really are the heart and soul of Falls and we look forward to updating you with our plans when the time is right." "We also want to send our love and thanks to our extended Falls team including staff, contractors, volunteers, sponsors, partners, suppliers, stakeholders and key agencies that we work with each year, for their enduring passion, dedication and support" Ducrou continued. Falls Festival has spent 28 years celebrating each new year with a hefty array of acts, including Arctic Monkeys, Lil Nas X, Peggy Gou, Jamie xx, Chvrches and The Wiggles to see out 2022 and welcome 2023. For its 2022–23 run, Falls took place in Pennyroyal Plains in Colac in Victoria, North Byron Parklands in Yelgun in New South Wales and Fremantle Park in Fremantle. It's been an eventful few years for the fest beyond the pandemic mayhem, too; back in 2021, Falls announced that it was saying goodbye to its usual Tasmanian leg in Marion Bay after 17 years, and also moving from Lorne in Victoria after a 27-year stint. Falls Festival won't return over the 2023–24 summer season. We'll update you when the event's comeback plans are announced. For more information in the interim visit the festival's website. Images: Charlie Hardy / Ash Westwood.
Khanaa has just arrived on Crown Street, shaking things up with unrivalled Bangladeshi cuisine by Chef Opel Khan. Khan has worked with over 20 restaurants across Australia, Asia and Europe and runs Métisse, Acqua e Farina and Pizza Boccone in Sydney. The notable chef is known for pushing culinary boundaries and leading the charge with cutting-edge cuisine. His latest restaurant is no exception — the menu fuses Khan's love of gastronomy and his mastery of fine-dining techniques with his Bangladeshi culture and childhood. In the open kitchen, chefs Lucinda Khan and Jazz Singh prepare elegant dishes such as aloo pakora (fried potato) topped with buffalo curd and shiraz caviar, duck leg confit samosa with fermented daikon and paaya made from bone marrow and oxtail consommé. Guests will be treated to unexpected textures and flavour combinations like tomato marshmallows (which literally melt in your mouth) served with a tart and tangy tomato chutney sorbet or tender marinated beef shortribs with aloo bhorta (mashed potato) and crispy saltbush. A highlight is Chef Opel's Mosaic, which is almost too pretty to eat — delicate slices of raw tuna, kingfish and trout are held together with edible carbon on a bed of refreshing spiced watermelon, topped with clarified ghee. If you're unsure where to start, the team, including Khan, are more than happy to chat you through the menu, or you can opt for the tasting menu to experience a curated selection of nine courses. Khanaa is located at Shop 3, 335 Crown Street, Surry Hills and is open for dinner between 5–10pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Make a booking at the restaurant's website.
Stainless Steel Rat is the name of the comic book anti-hero thief/conman created by Harry Harrison in 1961. He's the perfect example of a good criminal; picking locks in order to access precious intel, lying profusely to deceive his enemies, slippery as butter when it comes to being caught and completely strident about his moral position. He's a character that manages to compress right and wrong into the same action — a dirty job but someone's got to do it. Sound familiar? Director Wayne Harrison and writer Ron Elisha have delved into the world of the largest information dump in history — Wikileaks — and the life of one of the most controversial figures of our contemporary moment, Julian Assange. While the play presents itself as an 'artistic interpretation' of the events that lead to this Queensland-born kid becoming a wanted fugitive, it promises to be a condensed and lively depiction of how Assange actually managed to overturn the way we understand information, technology and our access to it. Whether you have been engrossed by the release of diplomatic cables and confidential documents or simply tickled by the chaos of it all, this production should fuel any fire already burning. For those who have been in a bubble during the Wikileaks spill, this might be an opportunity to feel the prick.
Heading out of the house for a drink, meal, coffee or night away isn't just about getting away from home. As the past two years have reinforced, it's also about soaking in gorgeous surroundings. You can get sipping and snacking anywhere, but when you're doing so in a spot that truly stands out (and not just because it isn't your own kitchen or dining room), it makes the experience all the more special. The Eat Drink Design Awards clearly agree, devoting its annual hospitality design accolades to Australia's most stunning spots — places where chefs, signature dishes, creative cocktails, stellar coffee and comfortable beds aren't the only attractions. Surveying the past year's haul of breathtaking places, the 2021 list of winners is characteristically filled with eye-catching charmers, spanning locations all around the country. Melburnians, your city is now home to the Best Bar Design recipient, with IF Architecture's work on Little Prince Wine earning the nod. The wine bar beneath St Kilda's Prince Hotel off Acland Street scored plaudits for its intimate space, its blend of the old and the new, and its eye for detail — including its fibreglass champagne tub, mirrored specials board and art deco-inspired light fittings. And, it also picked up the Best Retail Design gong for its cheese, cold cuts, wine and dry goods counter. [caption id="attachment_836689" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Little Prince Wine by Sharyn Cairns[/caption] The Best Restaurant Design field was so competitive, two winners were picked — which is great news for Sydneysiders and Brisbanites alike. Parramatta Square's Ciccia Bella, designed by Fiona Lynch Interior Design, got some love for its use of materials — with a particular shout out for its unexpected textures — while Fortitude Valley's Agnes, as designed by Amok, was rewarded for turning a late 19th-century warehouse into a haven for wood-fired food. Brisbane also emerged victorious in the Best Cafe Design category, thanks to Industry Beans Newstead and its light, airy coffee-slinging space. Designed by Platform by DesignOffice, the judges called it "the quintessential Queensland daytime eatery". And, if you're looking for a sumptuous place to stay, add Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street to your list. Thanks to its combination of a new 16-storey tower and the heritage Equity Chambers building, as well as its restaurant Luci and cocktail bar The Douglas Club, it's this year's Best Hotel Design winner. [caption id="attachment_787549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ciccia Bella Parramatta by Nikki To[/caption] The 2021 Eat Drink Design Awards also named the 2020 NGV Triennial's outdoor pavilions by Board Grove Architects the Best Installation Design, and Melbourne restaurant Hazel the winner of this year's Best Identity Design gong. For its Hall of Fame Award, Bill's Darlinghurst — designed by Brian Kiernan, with later additions by Tyrone Dearing and Meacham Nockles — got the nod. This year's Eat Drink Design Awards also named commendations in various categories. Among the venues also receiving some praise: Redfern's Atomic Beer Project and Freshwater's Harbord Hotel in Sydney; Richmond's Midi and Piccolina Hardware Lane in Melbourne; and McLaren Vale's Never Never Distillery in South Australia. [caption id="attachment_836686" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NGV Triennial 2020 Outdoor Pavilions by Rory Gardiner[/caption] 2021 EAT DRINK DESIGN AWARD WINNERS Best Restaurant Design: CicciaBella by Fiona Lynch Interior Design (Parramatta, New South Wales) and Agnes by Amok (Fortitude Valley, Queensland) Best Cafe Design: Industry Beans Brisbane by Platform by DesignOffice (Newstead, Queensland) Best Bar Design: Little Prince Wine by IF Architecture (St Kilda, Victoria) Best Hotel Design: Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street by Bates Smart (Melbourne, Victoria) Best Installation Design: NGV Triennial 2020 Outdoor Pavilions by BoardGrove Architects (Melbourne, Victoria) Best Retail Design: Little Prince Wine by IF Architecture (St Kilda, Victoria) Best Identity Design: Hazel by One&Other (Melbourne, Victoria) Hall of Fame: Bill's Darlinghurst by Brian Kiernan with later additions by Tyrone Dearing & Meacham Nockles (Darlinghurst New South Wales) For the full list of winners and commendations, head to the Eat Drink Design website. Top images: Industry Beans Brisbane by Andy Macpherson, Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street by Sean Fennessy, Agnes by Cathy Schusler and Little Prince Wine by Sharyn Cairns.
1980s Brisbane is coming to your streaming queue, and one of Australia's iconic novels along with it. It's been four years since Harper Collins sold the television rights to Boy Swallows Universe in 2019, then a year since Netflix announced its involvement in bringing the tale to the screen in 2022. Now, when 2024 hits, the wait to see what Trent Dalton's beloved award-winner looks like as a streaming series will be over. Boy Swallows Universe has won a swag of awards, including the Book of the Year, Literary Book of the Year and Audio Book of the Year at the 2019 Australian Book Industry Awards — and was longlisted for Australia's most prestigious literature prize, the Miles Franklin. It sold a heap of copies and been turned into a play. The Brisbane-set story trod those boards in Brissie, too, and now it's a Netflix series that was shot in the River City. After releasing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the production, initially advising that it would arrive in 2023 and dropping a first teaser trailer, the TV adaptation has now locked in its release date and unveiled its full sneak peek. First, mark Thursday, January 11, 2024 in your diary. Then, check out what's in store for this coming-of-age story on-screen via the new trailer. Dalton's novel and now the television show that follows spin a tale about a young boy, his prophetic brother and his jailbreaking best friend as they navigate the heroin-filled underworld of 80s Queensland. Also included: Eli Bell's (Felix Cameron, Penguin Bloom) attempt to understand how to be a good person, with his plight spanning a lost father, a criminal for a babysitter, a mum recovering from addiction, a mute brother, a stepfather who deals and a red telephone. Netflix's Boy Swallows Universe adaptation features eight episodes, running as a self-contained limited series, as it plunges into the space between childhood's magic and adulthood's reality. Travis Fimmel (Black Snow) also stars as Lyle Orlik, while the cast includes Simon Baker (Limbo) as Robert Bell and Phoebe Tonkin (Babylon) as Frances Bell — plus Lee Tiger Halley (The Heights) as Gus Bell. Also appearing: Bryan Brown (Hungry Ghosts) as Slim Halliday, Anthony LaPaglia (Nitram) as Tytus Broz, and Sophie Wilde (Talk to Me) as Caitlyn Spies, plus Christopher James Baker (Ozark) as Ivan Kroll, HaiHa Le (Spooky Files) as Bich Dang and Deborah Mailman (The New Boy) as Poppy Birkbeck. And, you'll see Ben O'Toole (Barons) as Teddy, Zachary Wan (Never Too Late) as Darren Dang, and Millie Donaldson (Jack Irish) and Eloise Rothfield as Shelley Huffman (aged 17 and 13, respectively). Boy Swallows Universe is directed by Bharat Nalluri (The Man Who Invented Christmas), Jocelyn Moorhouse (The Dressmaker) and Kim Mordaunt (The Rocket), and scripted by screenwriter John Collee (Master and Commander, Happy Feet, Hotel Mumbai). The impressive names involved extend to the show's executive producers, too, which include Joel Edgerton (The Stranger), Troy Lum (The Water Diviner, Saving Mr Banks, Mao's Last Dancer), Andrew Mason (The Matrix, The Water Diviner), Sophie Gardiner (Howard's End, Chimerica) and Kerry Roberts (Foe, Boy Erased). Check out the full trailer for Boy Swallows Universe below: Boy Swallows Universe will stream via Netflix from Thursday, January 11, 2024. Images: courtesy of Netflix © 2023.
A fast-paced sashimi bar specialising in fresh, reasonably-priced seafood has landed on Campbell Parade from the creators of the seafood delivery service GetFish. The home delivery website has been running since 2018, providing Sydneysiders across the city with access to the plentiful offerings available at the Sydney Fish Market with the click of a button. Now, the owners have turned their attention to a bricks-and-mortar offering with the arrival of GetSashimi in Bondi. Open seven days a week, GetSashimi is providing eastern suburbs residents with the chance to grab a sushi- and sashimi-filled lunch, or pick up high-quality fresh seafood to take home and incorporate into their home cooking. As you enter, you'll be greeted with an eight-metre-long sashimi cabinet filled with tuna, scallops, oysters, abalone, salmon and everything in between. While the quality is top-notch, the price tag is reasonable. Highly in-demand fish like yellowfin tuna will only set you back $12.99 per 100 grams. There are plenty of sushi options including nigiri tuna belly, salmon raspberry gunkan maki, tuna rolls and tempura prawn rolls — plus a selection of poke bowls topped with salmon, tuna, kingfish or mixed sashimi. Order a to-go box of everything you want, or nab a spot at the 18-seat sashimi train-style dine-in setup and take your pick of the chef's selections for the day as they travel past you. Both GetFish and GetSashimi are the handiwork of entrepreneur Antonio Muollo, who founded the delivery company when he was just 19 years old. "I am excited to be offering something completely unique to the Sydney market and bringing the best produce from the Sydney Fish Markets straight to Bondi daily," says Muollo. GetSashimi is open 11am–9pm Monday–Sunday at 180 Campbell Parade, Bondi. For more information and to browse the menu, head to the venue's website.
If you're a fan of Australian-made streetwear and indulging in pop-culture nostalgia — and who isn't? — then we've just found your new summer threads. Melbourne label HoMie has teamed up with Disney on a 90s-style range that's decked out with the Mouse House's beloved animated characters, with the 18-piece collection of t-shirts, shorts, hoodies and socks set to hit the brand's online store from Tuesday, November 16. It's a whole new world of nostalgia for your wardrobe — and while the HoMie and Friends range is clearly excellent news for Disney lovers, it's even better news for young people affected by homelessness or hardship. When the collection goes on sale, HoMie will donate 100-percent of the profits to the worthy cause. The label's first-ever range with Disney, HoMie and Friends is designed to offer a bright and retro way to embrace the warmer weather, too — especially after the chaotic year that's been 2021. "This collection organically grew from wanting to produce a range that focuses heavily on fun, positivity and friendship after what has been a really difficult time for people," said HoMie co-founder and Creative Director Marcus Crook. "We wanted the range to be fun to wear, so you will find lots of bright colours, bold prints, premium embroidery and, my personal favourite — the matching sets." The collection includes vibrant pink t-shirts emblazoned with Minnie Mouse's face, peach-hued hoodies featuring everyone from Donald Duck to Mickey Mouse, and other old school-leaning designs that draw upon Disney's OG stable of animated characters — such as a lime-green Goofy shirt, and both pastel blue and aqua-coloured Mickey combos. The whole collection is gender neutral, and sizing spans from XS to 3XL. The HoMie and Friends range will be available online from Tuesday, November 16 — head to HoMie's website for further details.
If it's been a while between visits to Chippendale, you may notice a few changes next time you drive up Regent Street. A strip of colourful brick-fronted townhouses has been demolished to make way for the multibillion-dollar Sydney Metro project, cabbie favourite Michael's Malaysian & Chinese Restaurant is gone and, in its place, a bright red neon sign has appeared. The sign belongs to Manny's, a matchstick-sized diner, whose pizza by the slice and juicy philly cheesesteaks are sure to be a hit with punters leaving Freda's and The Lord Gladstone in the wee hours. Run by Evan Hansimikali, who also owns the attached petrol station, Manny's opens from 6.30am on weekdays, for coffee and B&E rolls, all the way through to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. So, if you do stumble out of one of the aforementioned establishments after witching hour, you'll be able to grab a $5 slice of thin-crust New York-style pizza topped with double-smoked leg ham and artichoke, perhaps, or cabanossi and pepperoni. Vegan night owls are catered for, too, with about 40 percent of the menu meat- and dairy-free. Their late-night slice of choice might be topped with vegan cheese, potato and rosemary, instead. With only three seats, Manny's is more of a takeaway joint, and it knows this. A delivery service is in the works, it's setting up a happy hour deal with Freda's and it's primed for meals on-the-run, able to turn out a cheesesteak in a minute. And those cheesesteaks sound like they're more than worth the 60-second wait. To replicate the popular PA sangas, Hansimikali has hoagie-like rolls — a cross between baguettes and panini, he says— custom-made for him by Sydney's Fuel Bakery. Then, there's the all-important meat. "We use grass-fed scotch fillet steak," says Hansimikali. "We thinly slice it and throw it on the hot plate. It's so thin it falls apart in your mouth." After that, the rolls are loaded with American cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo. Some are also topped with meatball sauce and provolone, others eggplant and green peppers. They're not traditional, but Manny's isn't following any rulebook too closely. While the food is predominantly Italo-American, you'll also find Greek influences scattered throughout. One cheesesteak comes topped with tzatziki, you'll spot a hot dog with black olives and feta, and you can order fries covered in chilli and garlicky yoghurt. Cabbies might no longer be lining up for the Regent Street restaurant, but it looks like Ubers and personal cars will be soon, with plans for one of the petrol station lanes to be converted into a 'drive-thru'. Next time you're looking for fast meal beyond the Golden Arches, Manny's may be your answer. Find Manny's Pizza Diner at 66 Regent Street, Chippendale from 6.30am–11pm, Monday–Wednesday; 6.30am–midnight, Thursday; 6.30am–2am, Friday; 11am–2am, Saturday; and 5pm–11pm, Sunday.
Once, dance and classical weren't music genres that you'd usually find swirling around in the same basket, unless you have a particular bent for the orchestral 'Sandstorm' covers found in the depths of YouTube. Since 2019 in Australia, however, Synthony has been here to prove that the disciplines go hand in hand — and it's returning for another tour in 2024. Initially founded in New Zealand, and now an annual highlight on Australia's gig calendar, the event gets a live orchestra joining forces with a selection of DJs and onstage performers to play the biggest dance tracks of the last 30 years. Think: tunes by Swedish House Mafia, Basement Jaxx, Fatboy Slim, Avicii, Fisher, Faithless, Disclosure, Eric Prydz, Flume, Calvin Harris, Wilkinson and the like, and as you've never heard them before. Wherever Synthony pops up, the venues that it temporarily call home take a few cues from the nightclub scene, with lights, lasers and mapped video all featured in the experience. And, as the orchestra busts out a selection of dance floor bangers note for note, vocalists also do their part — because this isn't just about instrumental versions of your favourite club tunes. The 2024 run first has a date with Sydney, playing Carriageworks for two nights during Vivid — complete with a 29-piece orchestra — before heading to Brisbane's Fortitude Music Hall, the Adelaide Entertainment Centre and Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne in September. After that, RAC Arena in Perth awaits in October. The lineup of talent for Sydney spans the Metropolitan Orchestra conducted by Sarah-Grace Williams, as joined by Ilan Kidron from The Potbelleez, Emily Williams, Cassie McIvor, Greg Gould, Matty O and Mobin Master. Elsewhere, Queensland Symphony Orchestra will play Brisbane, Southern Cross Symphony will pick up instruments in Adelaide, Australian Pops Orchestra is doing the honours in Melbourne and Perth Symphony Orchestra has its hometown covered. Sarah-Grace Williams is still conducting, and will have company from Ilan Kidron from The Potbelleez, Masha Mnjoyan, Emily Williams, Greg Gould, Matty O, Nate Dousand and Mobin Master — plus Example in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, then Set Mo in Brisbane. Synthony 2024 Australia Tour Dates Friday, June 7–Saturday, June 8 — Carriageworks, Sydney Friday, September 6 — The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane Friday, September 13 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Friday, September 20 — Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne Saturday, October 12 — RAC Arena, Perth Synthony is touring Australia across 2024 — head to the Carriageworks website for tickets and further information for its Sydney gigs; and to the Synthony website for Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, with presales from Tuesday, May 28 and general sales from Thursday, May 30.
It's said that it takes a village to raise a child. In the case of Prince of York, it took a tribe of Sydney's top hospitality elite. Creative Director Paul Schulte (former partner at Keystone Group), Executive Chef Sam Bull and Sous Chef Adrian Jankuloski (both Icebergs Dining Room and Bar), Andy Emerson and Ed Loveday (Bar Brosé, The Passage and the recently closed Acme), Venue Manager Ed Verrill (London's Temper), Reece Griffiths (founder of Agave Cartel and behind Chula) and Events Manager Katherine Jankuloski (also IDRB) — they're just some of the talent behind Sydney CBD's ambitious new restaurant, bar and underground nightclub. Masterminding the project is Schulte, who's brought together a team that is "passionate about doing things differently, but don't want to be part of a big group". "It's meant to be fun," explains Schulte. And fun, Prince of York certainly is. Located inside a historic 1878 cash reserve, Prince of York is split into three distinct areas: the ground floor and mezzanine area, the downstairs cellar and Pamela's, a nightclub in the basement. As Schulte puts it, "upstairs is for eating, downstairs for dancing". [caption id="attachment_737671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ground floor by Kimberley Low[/caption] So, let's start upstairs. Step through the glass front doors and you'll be greeted by black-and-white Stephen Dupont photos, exposed brick walls, a giant central concrete bar, tan leather stools and an imposing metal light fixture hanging from the high ceiling. All of this furniture — including the light — was custom built by Schulte's furniture design company, Line. Take a seat at the bar — or at a table up on the mezzanine level — during lunch or dinner and order tomatoey crab pasta served in a bag, giant shells of pasta baked and filled with 12-hour lamb ragu and fontina, a $160 800-gram wagyu rib eye, banoffee pie or — the next big thing on Instagram, we're sure — the toastie. Filled with cheese and bone marrow, topped with a fried egg and served with a side of venison tartare, it's Loveday's lunchtime go-to. "If I was having lunch, I'd want to have a glass of the Envinate 'Benje', which is from the Canary Islands, and that toastie," Loveday says. Verrill, on the other hand, would go for a bowl of the thick-cut chips and a "really expensive champagne". Luckily, at Prince of York, you can do both. [caption id="attachment_737650" align="alignnone" width="1920"] That toastie by Kimberley Low[/caption] Walk downstairs and you'll find the cellar. Here, predictably, the focus is wine. Less expected is the 150-year-old safe that took Schulte almost a a year to open. While there was nothing inside — "we were hoping there were going to be bags of gold and we were going to be able to pay for the fit-out with it," laughs Loveday — it's since been filled with rare wines and mezcals, some of which will soon be on offer by the glass using a Coravin. The rest of the wine list, while filled with mostly bottles that are organic, minimal intervention and made by small producers, is still approachable. Lighting bolts mark the glasses and bottles that are "a little crazy" — like the naturally fermented Costadila prosecco, which tastes nothing like your run-of-the-mill Italian bubbles. [caption id="attachment_737657" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wine safe by Kimberley Low[/caption] Once you've finished exploring this level you can, finally, descend to Pamela's. An ode to Schulte's mum — who loved champagne, tequila and disco — the nightclub is filled with pink suede banquettes. But, as comfy as they look, Loveday says guests should "get off the couch and dance on the tables". On Fridays, you'll be boogying to disco at the regular Bola de Disco night — inspired by a crazy night Loveday had at the notorious Pare de Sufrir bar in Guadalajara, Mexico — and on Saturdays, shuffling to post-punk and new wave with Love Tempo. While you're dancing to these tunes atop the sturdy terrazzo tables, you can sip tapped margaritas or the Happy Pammy cocktail — with tequila, tangerine and bubbles — served with 'cosmic dust' on an LED coaster. If you're looking to make a night of it, you could, instead, order one of the giant punchbowls (which will serve a group of four to eight), made with whole bottles of tequila, pét-nat and seasonal fruit. [caption id="attachment_737654" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pamela's by Kimberley Low[/caption] At the moment, that night will end at midnight, but when the new liquor licence is approved, it'll extend till 2am. The team is also hoping to open at 8am in the near future for coffee and a short three-item menu of breakfast snacks. It's a space you could definitely get lost in till the early hours — and that's exactly the point of Prince of York. "The idea was to be a bit of a one-stop shop," explains Loveday. "To bring back that idea of a of a destination where you can come in for dinner, stay for a drink and kick on down in Pamela's." Thankfully, there are lockers that will allow you to eat, drink and dance on tabletops without losing your possessions, too. Find Prince of York at 18 York Street, Sydney. It's open from Monday–Saturday midday–midnight (soon to be 2am, pending approval of licence). Images: Kimberley Low.
No one will need to make any wishes to visit the most magical place in Australia over the summer of 2023–24. Enchanted creatures, alluring woodland spaces, eerie mirrors, dazzling slippers and eye-catching stagecoaches will all be part of the experience, however. The place: Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art, where Fairy Tales is taking over from Saturday, December 2–Sunday, April 28 as the River City venue's big summer exhibition. Fairy Tales was first announced in 2022 as part of GOMA's 2023 slate — and, from the moment that the 100-plus-piece showcase was revealed, it instantly sounded wondrous. The focus is indeed the stories that we all lapped up as kids, telling us about otherworldly critters, magic and more. Fairy Tales' art, installations and objects will split into three thematic chapters, starting with 'Into the Woods', then heading 'Through the Looking Glass' and finally pondering 'Ever After'. And yes, the exhibition will also survey the movies filled with such elements that still grace our screens, in what's set to be entrancing experience all round. [caption id="attachment_919713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Henrique Oliveira / Brazil b.1973 / Baitogogo 2013 / Palais de Tokyo, Paris / Plywood and tree branches / 6740 x 1179 x 2076cm / Courtesy SAM Art Projects, Galerie GP&N Vallois, Galeria Millan / © Henrique Oliveira / Photograph: André Morin / This work is indicative of a new commission by Henrique Oliveira for the exhibition 'Fairy Tales' at QAGOMA.[/caption] One massive highlight is Corupira 2023, a huge site-specific installation by Henrique Oliveira, which GOMA also advised would be part of Fairy Tales when the exhibition was initially added to its 2023 calendar. This sprawling piece will take pride of place inside the riverside venue, with the Brazilian artist using salvaged timber, plywood and tree branches to transform the building's architecture. The result: a sure-to-be-stunning gnarled and twisted forest (a sure-to-be-snapped sight, too, naturally) courtesy of a specially commissioned work. Another sizeable installation hails from Patricia Piccinini, who is no stranger to filling GOMA with delights. Here, she'll create a magical path that sits below a canopy. Of course genetically modified plants are involved, this time in the form of 3000 blooms. [caption id="attachment_919718" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trulee Hall / Witch House (Seance of the Umbilical Coven)(detail) 2020 / Wood, paper mâché, resin, fabric, stuffing, fake fur, synthetic hair, altered sex dolls, acrylic paint, spray paint, found candle holders, cornucopia baskets, found ceramic cornucopia, found crystal balls, convex mirror, polymer clay, hardware, LED candle / 431.8 × 685.8 × 436.88 cm / Collection: The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (MOCA) / Photograph: Joshua White / JWPictures.comThis work is indicative of a new commission by Trulee Hall for the exhibition 'Fairy Tales' at QAGOMA.[/caption] Overall, as it fills GOMA's entire ground floor, Fairy Tales will explore how folklore-, myth- and legend-related narratives have fascinated audiences through art and culture over not just years and decades but centuries. If creepy woods have influenced sculptures, or tales of princes and princesses have inspired painters, expect to see it here, in a blockbuster Australian-exclusive showcase that'll run for five months. On a list that goes on like breadcrumb trails, the full showcase will feature everything from drawings and installations through to fashion, as well as films and filmic elements such as props and costumes. Across the venue's walls and screens, wicked witches, magic animals (fierce and friendly alike), coming-of-age tales, shifting gender roles, bravery, loyalty, castles and pumpkins will all feature in one way or another — with help from artists such as Jana Sterbak, Kiki Smith, Abdul Abdullah and Ron Mueck. [caption id="attachment_919715" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Timothy Horn / Australia/United States b.1964 / Mother-load2008 / Crystalised rock sugar, plywood, steel / 292.6 x 182.9 x 170.7cm / Courtesy: The artist / Image courtesy: Jason Schmidt / New York Times / Photographer: Jason Schmidt.[/caption] Other specific pieces include a glass coffin by Sterbak, a dual mirror from Anish Kapoor, Gustave Doré's Little Red Riding Hood and Trulee Hall's Witch House (Umbilical Coven) 2023. Or, get excited about seeing interactive sculpture Flying Mushrooms 2015 by Carsten Höller; Costume for a mourner, a ballet costume by Henri Matisse; and Mueck's version of Pinocchio. Film fans will have much to peer at, and not just because an accompanying movie program is a reality as well thanks to GOMA's excellent Australian Cinematheque. That big-screen lineup will show relevant flicks, but the exhibition will overflow with other cinema-related details. Think: a costume donned by David Bowie in all-time classic Labyrinth, plus the thirteen-hour clock and glass orbs from the film; celebrating Where the Wild Things Are, both images from Maurice Sendak's and costumes created by the Jim Henson Creature Shop for the 2009 movie; a dress from Jean Cocteau's 1946 masterpiece La Belle et la Bête; costumes from 2012's Mirror Mirror by Eiko Ishioka; and Del Kathryn Barton and Brendan Fletcher's animation The Nightingale and the Rose. [caption id="attachment_919719" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Still from 'Cinderella' (1922) dir. Lotte ReinigerImage courtesy:British Film Institute[/caption] "The exhibition explores enchantment, thresholds and transformation while articulating concerns that have always been inherent in fairy tales, such as power imbalances, injustice, ageing, gender and otherness, and resilience in the face of adversity," said QAGOMA's Amanda Slack-Smith, who curated Fairy Tales and is also the Australian Cinémathèque's Curatorial Manager. "The exhibition includes more than 100 works encompassing sculpture, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, papercuts, animation, video art, film, props, costumes and even the hidden realm of augmented reality," added QAGOMA Director Chris Saines. "Celebrating a much-loved genre of storytelling, Fairy Tales is an adventure that will inspire and delight as it reminds us how timeworn narratives can be remixed and updated to both surprise and disconcert audiences." [caption id="attachment_919717" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tarsem Singh (director) / India/United States b.1961 / Eiko Ishioka (designer) / Japan 1938–2012 'Green dress' costume from Mirror Mirror 2012 / Silk, synthetic taffeta, nylon netting, plastic / © 2012 UV RML NL Assets LLC. / Photograph: Jan Thijs.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_919720" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Del Kathryn Barton (artist, director) / Australia b.1973 / Brendan Fletcher (director) / Australia /The Nightingale and the Rose (still) 2015 / Single-channel video: 14 minutes, colour, sound / Animators: Chris Breeze, Simon Bronson, David Edwards, Liz Ellis, Richard Swan / Music: Sarah Blasko/ Gift of Del Kathryn Barton through the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art Foundation 2022. Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program / Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art© Del Kathryn Barton / Image courtesy: The artist and RoslynOxley9 Gallery, Sydney.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_919716" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Timothy Horn / Australia/United States b.1964 / Glass slipper (ugly blister) 2001 / Lead crystal, nickel-plated bronze, Easter egg foil, silicon / 51 x 72 x 33cm / Purchased 2002 / Collection: National Gallery of Australia, Canberra© Timothy Horn.[/caption] Fairy Tales will display at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art, Stanley Place, South Brisbane from Saturday, December 2, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024. For further details, visit GOMA's website. Top image: Henrique Oliveira / Brazil b.1973 / Baitogogo 2013 / Palais de Tokyo, Paris / Plywood and tree branches / 6740 x 1179 x 2076cm / Courtesy SAM Art Projects, Galerie GP&N Vallois, Galeria Millan / © Henrique Oliveira / Photograph: The artist / This work is indicative of a new commission by Henrique Oliveira for the exhibition 'Fairy Tales' at QAGOMA.
Plastic shopping bags might seem to last forever, but Australian's reliance upon the pesky, flimsy carriers has an expiration date. In a massive move for the industry — and a huge hug for the environment — the country's supermarkets are ditching single-use plastic bags from 2018. Three grocery chains have announced that they'll be banning the bag: Woolworths, Coles and the New South Wales-based Harris Farm. The big two will phase out plastic bags over the next 12 months, with Woolies' plans also including Big W and BWS, while Harris Farm will remove them from checkouts by January 1, 2018. Rather than offer shoppers free carriers, the supermarkets will sell thicker, reusable options for 15 cents per bag. The move will impact Woolworths and Coles locations around the country — bringing New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia into line with South Australia, ACT, the Northern Territory and Tasmania, where state-wide plastic bans are already in place. Over at Harris Farm, their range will also include single-use paper bags, as well as the free cardboard boxes they've been providing to customers for the past decade. Getting rid the ever-present items everyone has too many of is just the latest example of Aussie businesses putting the planet first, rather than prioritising convenience, money or simply maintaining the environmentally unfriendly status quo. Brisbane's Crowbar banned plastic straws last year, Closed Loop has been trialling ways to recycle takeaway coffee cups, and reusable coffee cups have been gaining popularity all over the place — with some cafes offering discounts, and others banning disposable containers completely. Via the ABC.
As Mother's Day fast approaches, finding the perfect way to honour the incredible women who have shaped our lives can be a challenging endeavour. But what better way to show gratitude and celebrate than with a glass of champagne? Mother's Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in the best, so together with G.H. Mumm or Perrier-Jouet Champagne, we've rounded up we've rounded up a selection of experiences featuring great cuisine, creative pursuits, and (of course) premium champagne that you can book now. Reign at the QVB Celebrate Mother's Day in the stunning, light-filled champagne parlour, Reign. Located in the QVB, the space exudes that old-school, classic charm with sprawling marble floors and iconic arched windows that overlook the city. For Mother's Day, Reign will host brunch and lunch sessions for $79 per person ($29 for kids). The Shared Feast Menu (fittingly) features a glass of complimentary G. H. Mumm upon arrival. Plus, a live DJ will set the vibe to commence the celebrations. You can book your table here. [caption id="attachment_786070" align="alignnone" width="1918"] Robert Walsh[/caption] Infinity at Sydney Tower Head up 81 floors to the top of Sydney's iconic Infinity at Sydney Tower, an unforgettable way to treat your mum this Mother's Day. Infinity is offering a three-course menu for $179 per person. Enjoy a decadent lunch with revolving city and harbour views, a glass of G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon on arrival, and live jazz from their two-piece band to set the mood. After dessert, your mum will walk away with an individual rose and homemade truffles, a perfect Mother's Day treat. Reserve your table here. Nour Treat your Mum to a Modern Middle Eastern feast at Nour in Surry Hills. The hatted restaurant will serve a special Mother's Day banquet lunch for $119 per person, featuring classic Lebanese flavours with a contemporary twist. Soak in the ambience in the light-filled dining room and give your mum the day she deserves. You can even elevate the occasion and organise some bubbly or oysters on arrival. The best part? Nour will send every mum home with a complimentary G. H. Mumm Champagne — a perfect end to the perfect lunch. Book your Mother's Day banquet here. Icebergs Club There's nothing that exudes a more iconic Sydney moment than looking out over Bondi Beach at the legendary Icebergs Club. The sun-drenched venue is a perfect place to celebrate Mother's Day. Enjoy a laidback, bistro-style lunch with that signature Iceberg flair and raise a glass to Mum with some Mumm champagne. The Club will offer $99 bottles of Mumm for the month of May to celebrate Mother's Day — a great deal to help you celebrate with the finest. Book your spot here. Finer Rings Jewellery-Making Class at Four Hundred Treat your mum to something special this year and relish bonding time with a jewellery-making class on Saturday, May 11. North Sydney's Mexican bar and kitchen, Four Hundred, will host Finer Rings, an afternoon of creativity and indulgence. For $120 per person, enjoy half a bottle of Mumm champagne and a gourmet grazing platter as you create a stamped initial necklace and pearl earrings. The class is intimate, so book in now to secure your spot. Book your spot here. Henry G's Wine Parlour Looking for a unique Mother's Day experience? Intimate boutique wine bar Henry G's in Manly will host a Mumm champagne masterclass with a paired menu of signature pintxos. Celebrate Mum with Mumm and discover the world of champagne while enjoying Perrier-Jouet Belle Époque by the glass. The immersive experience also includes a live pianist for that signature Henry G's touch, making it a Mother's Day celebration to remember. The event is spread across the Mother's Day weekend, and you can book your spot here. Mother's Day QTea High Tea by Adriano Zumbo For a real taste of opulence, indulge your mum in a High Tea experience at the QT Hotel. The world-famous pâtissier Adriano Zumbo has crafted a selection of decadent treats to enjoy for the very special occasion. Start off with 'Sconez' with Tasmanian strawberry, lemon myrtle jam and clotted cream, then move on to the Japanese Miso Chicken Roll with yuzu, avo and sesame. The tea can be perfectly paired with Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut Champagne for $130 per person to ensure you sip in style. Spoil your mum and book a High Tea celebration now. Bistro Mosman Celebrate Mother's Day in style at Bistro Mosman, the resort-style dining room will be serving a three course menu of Provencal French cuisine, embracing classic charm for the classic woman. Or, if you are looking for something a little less traditional, head to the intimate Juniper Lane for the signature ½ lobster and fries, served with a glass of Perrier-Jouet – a truly decadent Mother's Day treat. Every Mum will receive a beautiful flower upon arrival, along with a special surprise treat from The Beuna team. Whether it's lunch or dinner, make a reservation now to ensure a memorable celebration for the special woman in your life. Spoil your mum this Mother's Day by treating her to a glass of G.H. Mumm or Perrier-Jouet Champagne one of these stunning restaurants in your city.
Music festival fans, it's time to take your horse to the old town road — hat down, cross town, livin' like a rock star. New South Wales end-of-year staple Lost Paradise has announced its return for 2022, and it's making a comeback with two huge headliners: Lil Nas X, clearly, as well as Arctic Monkeys. Do you wanna know what you're now doing this New Year's Eve? This Glenworth Valley event now has the answer. Between Wednesday, December 28–Sunday, January 1, it'll unleash a massive lineup that also includes Jamie xx, Ocean Alley, Spacey Jane, G Flip and Pinkpantheress, as well as Peggy Gou, KiNK, Ben Böhmer and Mall Grab doing DJ sets. And yes, it shares quite a few acts in common with the also just-announced Falls Festival bill for 2022 — but if you can't make it to Byron Bay, you now have another option. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lost Paradise (@lostparadiseau) Since first unleashing its specific flavour of festival fun back in 2014, Lost Paradise has become a go-to way to see out one year and welcome in another — and with its just-dropped roster of talent for 2022, that's set to be the case across its four-stage setup again this time around. Also on the bill: artistic experiences, talks, workshops, wellness, and food and drink, all as part of a four-day camping festival. So, there's plenty to get excited about, and to tempt you to make the journey an hour out of Sydney. While the full rundown of activities hasn't been revealed as yet, past fests have included yoga, fashion and art markets, and a food and drink hub with communal tables for dining and an array of cuisines for feasting upon. And, camping-wise, options span everything from rent-a-tents to luxury glamping. Lost Paradise 2022 will introduce a ban on single-use plastics, too — which'll mean that you'll need to acknowledge the 'Paradisian Pledge' to minimise pollution and leave the campsite with no waste in order to purchase tickets. Also, this year's event will only use building materials built from 100-percent recyclable materials, and produce zero landfill. Of course, it's the music lineup that'll get you to Lost Paradise in the first place — the fest's first event since being forced to cancel in 2019 due to the New South Wales bushfires. So, enough chatter; here it is: LOST PARADISE LINEUP 2022: Artist lineup: Arctic Monkeys Lil Nas X Jamie xx Ocean Alley Spacey Jane G Flip Pinkpantheress Cub Sport Genesis Owusu Young Franco The Vanns MAY-A Furnace & The Fundamentals King Stingray Pacific Avenue Telenova 1300 Stumps Big Twisty & The Funknasty Egoism Yung Mtyr Lazywax Elsy Wamayo Eagle Eye Jones Abby Bella May Greatest Hits Sweetie Liyah Knight Coconut Cream Liquid Time Casual Fan Electronic lineup: Peggy Gou Mall Grab Ben Böhmer Folamour DJ Boring KiNK HAAi TSHA CC:DISCO! Heidi X Club. Flava D Shanti Celeste Moxie Loods Wax'o Paradiso Wongo Little Fritter Merve Luen Ebony Boadu Ayebatonye Crush3d James Pepper Elijah Something Latifa Tee Willo Dameeeela Mincy Conspiracy Crew Luke Alessi Troy Beman Mintox Waxlily Uncle Ru Girlthing Dj's Cleo Clutch 4 Love Roxy Lotz Madami Lost Paradise returns to Glenworth Valley from Wednesday, December 28–Sunday, January 1. Pre-sale tickets are available from Tuesday, May 10 with general tickets from Wednesday, May 11. For more information, head to the festival's website. Top image: Jordan Munns.
Market City's newly minted 1909 Dining Precinct has a fiery side: an upscale Korean BBQ offering named Kogi. Joining a fast-growing contingent of eateries in the modern third-floor food court — one that already houses the noodle house from Mr Meng of If You Are The One and Japan's famed Yayoi — the 80-seat restaurant is plating up a contemporary Korean nosh punctuated by top quality local produce. Seoul-trained chef Hang Jun Chung has designed a menu of raw, fresh and marinated proteins and vegetables, headlined by 15 primo cuts of pork and wagyu beef. This one's a hands-on food experience, with diners invited to cook directly over charcoal — right there at the table. Expect to find yourself salivating over the likes of marinated beef spare ribs (galbi) while it cooks on the grill alongside authentic side dishes. The $75 pork platter for three is good value, as is the $10 lunch box. Bibimbap and fried chicken find their way onto the menu, too. With General Manager David Bae's father credited with opening Australia's first Korean barbecue restaurant in 1992, it's safe to say Kogi's got sturdy roots in the cuisine.
If you're vegan, or just generally into vegan-friendly things, then the Vegan Grocer Store is your one-stop shop for food, beauty, fashion and home goods. Starting off as an online-only business, this bricks-and-mortar store on Glebe Point Road has been serving animal-loving and sustainability-minded Sydneysiders since it opened back in 2012. In store, you'll find groceries, wine, instant meals and vegan recipe cards alongside fashion items, shoes and cosmetics — all, of course, cruelty free. Images: Trent van der Jagt
There's no need to solve a puzzle box to gain entry to one of the highlights of Sydney Film Festival 2024 for horror lovers. All that you need is a ticket to the latest performance by Hear My Eyes, the screening series that pops up regularly — including in the Harbour City — with beloved flicks treated to a brand-new score played live while viewers lock their eyes on the big screen. The latest film getting the Hear My Eyes treatment: the OG Hellraiser. If you're not a fan of horror, don't say that you haven't been warned. Novelist Clive Barker's first feature as a director adapted his novella The Hellbound Heart, introduced the world to Cenobites and started a franchise that reached its 11th instalment with the 2022 reboot also called Hellraiser. To make stirring music to go with the movie, Hieroglyphic Being aka Jamal Moss is heading from Chicago to Sydney's City Recital Hall for one sessions at 7pm on Wednesday, June 12. Pinheads, that's how you spend a midweek evening. As for the lasers, none other than Robin Fox of Constellation, Disapora, Quadra and Triptych fame — and Beacon at MONA, too — is helping to ramp up what's set to be a stunner (and a spine-tingler) of a multi-sensory experience.
Sydney's first theatre, opened in 1796, was the brainchild of released convict Robert Sidaway. Three shillings and sixpence would buy a front box, and those out of cash could swap flour, meat or spirits for a seat. By early 1800, Sidaway, who'd been transported to Australia for life for committing grand larceny, was presenting Shakespeare's plays. A few months later, the colonial authorities shut the theatre down for its perceived "corrupting influence". A hundred years later, the arts are perceived as playing a key role in deepening connections between officialdom and the public. In the eyes of the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority CEO, Catherine Gallagher, "The Foreshore Authority is always looking for inventive ways to interpret history, and the arts offer us a way to think and look at the world differently." The SHFA's latest project is one of its most ambitious and exciting yet. On April 12, a four-storey windmill will pop up in The Rocks, operating for one month as both a wheat grind and an arts venue. The extravaganza of events focuses on The Rocks' history and physical surroundings, incorporating music, art, food, architecture, history, storytelling, science, and technology. Highlights include Bell Shakespeare's scenes from Henry IV, Penguin Plays Rough's presentation of Rocks-themed stories from new writers, and audio shows from both FBi Radio and artist Jane Ulman. For a hands-on experience, visitors can attend workshops with the likes of The Rizzeria, Make-Space for Architecture, and Craft NSW. Green thumbs will have the opportunity to learn about wheat cultivation with Gardening Australia's Costa Georgiadis and get their hands dirty with the windmill's sustainable garden. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Nearly all events are free; however, spaces are strictly limited. Online registration, available from March 11, is essential.
What do Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart and Justin Bieber have in common? Apart from a propensity for unappealing hairdos, that is? They've all made a rest stop at Jonah's a mandatory part of their Australian touring schedule. Some might say it's the jaw-dropping, panoramic Pacific views. Others would point to the luxurious Relais & Chateaux Ocean Retreat rooms. Others still are likely to suggest the favoured mode of arrival: a spectacular 20-minute seaplane ride from Sydney Harbour. But the locals know the truth. After all, they've been flocking to Jonah's since 1928, when it was no more than a roadhouse. Back then, luxury accommodation and an array of Good Food hat-worthy culinary creations weren't on offer. One chef however, had a very special secret: an unbeatable recipe for panna cotta. It wasn't long before locals were arriving in droves to try it out — for a second, third or twentieth time. Eighty-four years later, it is back on the menu for Priceless Sydney, and it's still a favourite — in these five-star days it's served with chargrilled quince, mandarin sorbet and pink pepper tuile. Local business Palm Beach Collection has even collaborated with Jonah's on a hand-poured, eco-friendly candle featuring the lush aromas of the Northern Beaches' most famous dessert. The big news is that both products are currently being given away via MasterCard's Priceless Sydney program. Any MasterCard cardholder who orders two or more courses at Jonah's will receive not only a complimentary signature dessert but also a free Palm Beach Collection candle. All you have to do is pay with your MasterCard card and mention the Priceless Sydney offer.
Eye-catching and thought-provoking art has once again descended upon Sydney's coastline, with the 23rd Sculpture by the Sea exhibition kicking off today. Stretching along two kilometres from Bondi to Tamarama Beach, you'll find 111 sculptures from 19 countries. The exhibition is free, and you can catch it from October 24 through November 10. This year, you'll find sculptures by ten Czech and Slovak artists marking the 30th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, a series of protests that led to the fall of communism in what was then Czechoslovakia, and the collaborative Succah by the Sea, which sets out to re-imagine the Jewish Festival of Succot. You'll also be able to hear directly from the artists every Saturday and Sunday. Among the 100-plus incredible installations, and the 450,000 people expected to visit the spectacle over the 18-day exhibition, it can be tricky to know where to look. And, considering this might be the last year Sculpture by the Sea is held in Bondi, it would be tragic if you missed any of the best pieces. Here are our pick for this year's highlights. [caption id="attachment_747672" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] WANG KAIFANG: THE STATUE OF MAD LIBERTY Made of 24-karat gold (and copper and stainless steel, but that's not quite as fancy), Chinese artist Wang Kaifang's The Statue of Mad Liberty reflects the chaotic nature of the modern world. The distorted figure represents the way freedom fills us with joy, before the panic sets in. It is meant to encompass all that goes into society, humanity, science and art. The swirling gold piece sits well among the artist's numerous previous works — Kaifang is considered one of China's most influential cross-disciplinary artists, and while his portfolio covers everything from architecture and fashion, through to painting and photography, shimmering metallics and abstract shapes are recurring motifs. [caption id="attachment_747796" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] ANGELA FEMIA, CAROLYN HUNTER, PAULINE PLUMB AND CRISTINA HARRIS: OUT OF REACH This is an artwork you could easily miss or dismiss as part of the scenery on a particularly bright day, but we think it's one you should keep an eye out for. A team of four local artists — all graduates of the Sydney College of the Arts and regular collaborators — is responsible for these quaint ceramic houses, nestled among the rocks alongside the trail. The tiny white homes of all different shapes and sizes were inspired by the current nationwide angst about the unattainability of the Australian Dream — something a lot of millennials can certainly relate to. Artists Angela Femia, Carolyn Hunter, Pauline Plumb and Cristina Harris created Out of Reach as a playful take on the pursuit of that white picket fence. [caption id="attachment_747676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] JOEL ADLER: VIEWFINDER Emerging Sydney designer Joel Adler wants you to look a little closer at the undercurrents and the impacts of constantly demanding more. From its spot on a cliff by Marks Park, Viewfinder reflects the whirling waves below using a toughened double-sided glass mirror, like a periscope. The weighted sculpture is made from weathered steel, creating a rather aesthetically pleasing contrast between the rust orange of the structure and the ocean blue beyond. The sculpture allows you to see parts of the waves below that you can't usually see from the path, which the artist hopes will make you consider the possibilities created by new perspectives and how we view our relationship with the land. [caption id="attachment_747679" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] JIAO XINGTAO: YELLOW AND GREEN Another installation that hits close to home is Jiao Xingtao's two-piece Yellow (2015) and Green (2012). While these sculptures are made from painted fibreglass, its easy to see why his work is known for being hyperrealistic — the tears, scrunches and ripples of discarded packaging are carefully replicated. Even for art novices, the screwed up packets of Wrigley's Doublemint and Juicy Fruit gum are a clear commentary on waste and consumerism. If you want to check out more of his work, Xingtao is currently exhibiting as part of White Rabbit Gallery's tenth birthday retrospective Then — here are our picks for that one, too. [caption id="attachment_747680" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] LUKÁŠ RITTSTEIN AND BARBORA SLAPETOVA: BIRD OF PARADISE A large steel bird, bright and vibrant, emerges from a car in a symbol of purity and an optimistic outlook for the future, from Czech artists Lukáš Rittstein and Barbora Slapetova. A melding of the technological and the natural world, Bird of Paradise and its brights colours are meant to make you want to dance, love and search for something new. This striking piece is part of a showcase of ten Czech and Slovak artists exhibiting at this year's event, in honour of the 30 years that have passed since the Velvet Revolution (known as the Gentle Revolution to the Slovaks), which saw the end of more than four decades of totalitarian communist oppression of Czechoslovakia. [caption id="attachment_747764" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Clyde Yee[/caption] MORGAN JONES: THE SUN ALSO RISES New Zealand sculptor Morgan Jones is the recipient of the $70,000 Aqualand Sculpture Award for his piece The Sun Also Rises — so it's kind of a big deal. Made from weathering steel, the work is representative of the circular inevitability of our existence, designed to restate its rhythms. In that vein, Jones has referenced a quote from the book of Ecclesiastes, one of the books of the Old Testament, for the sculpture's title: "The sun also rises, and the sun goes down. And hastens to the place where it arose." It seems fitting to take it all in as the sun rises over the sea. Sculpture by the Sea runs until November 10. For more info, visit sculpturebythesea.com. Top images: Trent van der Jagt.
Sydney Harbour's Pullman Quay Grand has opened a new bar — and it looks tremendously luxe. Located within the Circular Quay hotel, Hacienda is a brand new 'vista bar', taking inspiration from Cuba's grandiose, plantation-style architecture and the vintage hotels of 1950's Miami. Applejack Hospitality — whose venues include Bondi Hardware, The Butler and Della Hyde — have teamed up with AccorHotels to pull off this stylish throw-back "botanical oasis" of a space. And it's stunning. The harbourside space is filled with luxurious, pastel lounge furniture, brass details and lush roof greenery, all surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows which showcase panoramic views of the city, the bridge and Sydney Harbour. Plus, they can all open to create a terrace-like feel. The drink menus mimics the venue design by using Cuban flavours, slinging cocktails which include classic ingredients like banana, guava and custard apple. The Tropical Sour – banana-infused Encanto pisco, Tío Pepe sherry, lime and honey — sounds especially tasty, as is the Old Smoked Presidente: a concoction of aged rum, orange curacao, dry vermouth, house-spiced raspberry syrup and Angostura bitters. The bar also has an impressive stock of rum and American whiskey for those looking for something neat. The food offering, curated by Executive Chef Stefan Brademann, will complement the drinks and have a Cuban-American flare. Fusion dishes like the yuka fries, buttermilk fried chicken and a pork neck mojo will sit on the menu alongside a Cubano-Reuben hybrid and burgers galore. The menu will be balanced between bar snacks and more substantial dishes to accommodate for anything from nibbling patrons to hangry ones. This little slice of Cuban culture may play to cliches but we're not fussed — especially considering the iconic views that come with it.
This Maroubra stalwart has been kitting people out with their first, second and third set of wheels for over 40 years. It's as much of a store as it is a community, as the shop is a starting point for group rides, like the MC Saturday Classic rides (which are currently on hold). Stocking brands such as Trek, Avanti, Cannondale, Wethepeople and Parlee, MC Cyclery has what you need when you want to shop for a bike for leisure or commuting — and it has a growing BMX offering, too. Rapha fans can also get the brand's clothing here, including caps, gilets, jerseys and socks. Plus, if you want to give one of the Cannondale Experience bikes a trial, you can hire one for $85 a day.
Get ready to cosy up this winter at the Sydney Tea Festival. If you have a yearning for an Earl Grey or a passion for Russian Caravan, this event is sure to warm your cockles. When the festival opens at Carriageworks on Sunday, August 18, you'll find all manner of tea-related talks, workshops and tastings to extend your appreciation of the finest brew. One workshop, held by Lachie Beange from Archie Rose Distilling Co., will explore tea and gin pairings — because your next tea party could always use some booze. In another, you'll learn all about pairing your favourite beverage with vegan food. Or, take sessions on everything from Australia's green teas to reading tea leaves — when you're not sipping your way through the tea market, that is. There'll be plenty of stallholders showing their wares, a tasting table for small groups and a DIY tea blending station. Tickets range from $16.95 in advance to $20.95 on the door, and you should book ahead for the workshops and talks. Get ready to curl those frosty hands around a warm cuppa and escape Sydney's winter chill. Images: Madeye Photography.
This article is part of our series on the diverse highlights of NZ's Canterbury region, from city to snow. To book your Lake Tekapo trip, visit the 100% Pure New Zealand website. While those wanting to open bar in Melbourne or Sydney might have to settle for managing one, in Christchurch having your own place is entirely possible. This 'city of opportunity' mentality has spawned a new wave of small bars, each one taking its place in this new cultural landscape of Christchurch. The burgeoning bar culture has been vital to the reinvention of the city, as it will continue to be as it grows, rebuilds and evolves in the years ahead. From local wine and craft beer on New Regent Street to margaritas and Mexican on the north side of the city, here are our five favourite bars in Christchurch. The Last Word The Last Word is the cosiest whiskey bar in Christchurch. Even if it's the only whiskey bar in Christchurch (which is quite likely), its charm certainly isn't diminished — not in our books, anyway. And it's the first bar you should hit should you find yourself in the CBD, whether it's for a pre-dinner or post-dinner drink, or just because it's after 4pm. Nestled on the cute Spanish-style New Regent Street (which houses quite a few gems; read on), The Last Word is all about you drinking fine whiskey in a fine setting. The bar is precisely the place you want to indulge in some 21-year-old Ardbeg single malt Scotch whiskey. You're welcome to sit up at the bar downstairs, or up in the lounge-like den, complete with low leather chairs and low level lighting. If you know your whiskey you might be able to tackle the menu, but for all us mere mortals, it's best to ask the staff for recommendations — the list is huge and these guys know what they're talking about. Give them a vague indication and they'll be able to deliver on either a whiskey — Scotch, Irish, Japanese and New Zealand varietals are all on offer — or a cocktail to your liking. If you want a taste of everything though, get them to put together a tasting plate for you. Otherwise, they have a heaps of non-whiskey spirits behind the bar as well as wine and bottled beers. Basically, they have everything. You don't ever need to leave. 31 New Regent Street, Christchurch, +64 3 928 2381, lastword.co.nz Shop Eight Just a few doors down also on New Regent Street, you'll find — or be drawn to —Shop Eight. The tiny wine bar emanates a soft, golden glow out onto the quiet pedestrian-only street; sometimes there will be a guitarist riffing away in front of the bar, and even on a cold night there are bound to be one or two patrons sitting outside with a glass of red and a blanket over their knees. This place is special, and it's an absolute must-visit. The brainchild of Liz Phelan, Shop Eight is just about as Christchurch as it gets. Pretty much all the food is sourced from the Canterbury region that surrounds the city, with chef Alex Davies using what he can get to create a seasonal menu that changes each day. The cheese comes from down the road in Darfield, the olives are picked from the Peninsula and all the meat is sourced from as close by as possible. And same goes for the wine: it all comes from North Canterbury. Even the fit-out is part of the city, with Rekindle — a social enterprise that repurposes wood waste — building the bar, table and chairs out of salvaged materials. Open for lunch or dinner, it's wine time from midday — but we recommend heading in for dinner as well as a drink. 8 New Regent Street, Christchurch, +64 3 390 0199, shopeight.co.nz The Dirty Land If you can get past the name, you might actually find yourself sitting in The Dirty Land eating a taco and downing a margarita. Because, thankfully, that's about as dirty as it gets. Connected to Mexicano's next door — Christchurch's answer to the modern Mexican craze that we're already very familiar with — this bar is a nice reprieve from the adjoining restaurant that seems to be booked out any night of the week. Inside it's moody and a little bit Day of the Dead, with tables for small groups and a bar for those drinking in a duo or solo. Food comes flying in from the kitchen next door, and before you know it you'll be wolfing down an A-grade taco and some fried chicken with a drizzle of lime. The Dirty Land is one stop on the Victoria Street bar hop — particularly on Friday and Saturday nights — but during the week it's a surefire place to get a seat, a good feed and something in a salt-rimmed glass. 131 Victoria Street, Christchurch, +64 3 365 5340, thedirtyland.co.nz The Monday Room If there was ever a place to get a cocktail in Christchurch, it's at the The Monday Room. With heavy features like an open fireplace, opulent red wallpapered walls and dark timber throughout, the bar beckons a cocktail order as rich as the space would suggest. That's why you'll order the Marmalade Rum Sour, and later maybe a negroni or whiskey some way or another. You'll barely be able to help it. But drinks aren't the only thing they do well here — their Japanese-style menu covers everything from snacking right through to dessert. Share small plates like the super fresh sashimi (you are in New Zealand, after all), soft shell crab and the fried chicken, or go for it with the whole sake-steamed flounder. Everything's relatively well priced but doesn't fail to feel extra decadent. Corner Moorhouse Avenue and Madras Street, Christchurch, +64 3 377 5262, themondayroom.co.nz The Institution Literally the newest bar on the New Regent Street block, The Institution has only just opened the doors to their upstairs craft beer haven little over a month ago. The space is small, but don't be fooled — these guys pack a lot of beer. The five beers on tap are constantly rotating, and at the time of our visit they were pouring a Raindogs Brewing Wee Bairn Bitter and a Four Avenues Amber Ale, both of which are brewed in Christchurch. If you can't choose (the bottled list goes on), the bar staff will be able to make a recommendation. Beer cocktails are also on the cards — just let them know you're game. 28 New Regent Street, Christchurch, theinstitution.co.nz Getting there Air New Zealand offers regular flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney to several North Island airports. A hop across the Tasman takes a comfortable three hours from Australia’s east coast. For more information go to www.airnz.com and www.newzealand.com The Last Word image thanks to pistolkeith via Instagram.
New bars and restaurants are always finding their way onto the ever-changing streets of Surry Hills. From Korean delicatessens, to Melbourne pizza empires, the suburb is always offering up fresh spots to duck in for a meal or martini. The latest venue to pop up in the bustling streets of the inner city suburb is Bar Suze, the brainchild of long-time hospitality mainstays and friends Gregory Bampton, Phil Stenvall and Brenton Hassan. Located on Foveaux Street just down from Excelsior Hotel, Bar Suze offers a cosy, candle-lit wine bar experience with food inspired by Stenvall's Swedish heritage and a wine list handpicked by Bampton. Together, the venue's central trio bring years of experience from Sydney favourites like Pinbone, ACME, Vini and Johnny Fishbone — and they've named the bar after fellow hospitality star and friend of the trio Sarah 'Suze' Simm. Bar Suze is designed to be friendly and welcoming, as inspired by late nights Bampton, Stenvall and Hassan have spent in local wine bars and restaurants across the world. "It's really important to us that Bar Suze feel like a place you can hang out for hours at a time," says Bampton. At the heart of Stenvall's menu is the combination of Australian seafood and Scandinavian flavours. Across the 'smorgasbord' menu you'll find smoked prawns accompanied by saffron aioli, smoked mussels paired with nduja and anchovy rye toast. "Australians are very proud of their prawns, but nobody smokes them," Stenvall says. "It's a very typical thing to do in Sweden, but when done with Aussie prawns it's a dish to get really excited about." Those looking for something more substantial can satisfy their hunger with honey bug and ricotta gnocchi, or wood-smoked eggplant with brown butter, sour currants and sheep's cheese. A small but decedent dessert menu includes bombe alaska, cloudberry sorbet, and a cheese selection. Bampton's wine list showcases a reserved selection of Australian, Italian and French wines, and is accompanied by sour beers, farmhouse ales and organic spirits. Bampton will also be serving his own house-made apple wine. Open until midnight Tuesday–Saturday, the bar promises after-work and late-night snacks and drinks five days a week. And, by late, it means late. Bampton promises "we're not going to be one of those places that says we're open late and then close the kitchen at 9pm. If you walk in at 11.30 at night, we're still serving the whole menu". Find Bar Suze at Shop 1, 54 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills — open 5pm–12am Tuesday–Saturday. Images: Nikki To.
Head to the growing food mecca that is Burwood and make a beeline for Yang's Dumpling. Part of the popular Shanghainese chain, it first opened in Burwood as a takeaway-only spot. Thankfully, it has since set up shop on Deane Street with space to dine in, and another neon-lit outpost on Enmore Road in Newtown. You'll want to order its signature sheng jian bao (from $7.80) — doughy, crisp-bottom dumplings filled with spicy pork mince. The xiao long bao ($8.80) here are also exceptional, as are the sui mai ($7.80), deep-fried mini pork buns (from $6.80) and the Sichuan-style wontons in peanut sauce ($10.80). Hot tip: order extra peanut sauce and put it on everything.
There are many ways that you can show love for your pet pooch, especially in these extremely dog-friendly times. Want to take Fido to a music festival? Head to a pub with Coco? Let Rex loose at a Halloween party for canines? Yes, you can do just that — and have your four-legged bestie's cute face plastered across your swimmers, too, because the list really does go on. Only one adorable pupper can get immortalised in Lego, however. We're not talking about just sticking a few bricks together at home, either. Inspired by International Dog Day, Melbourne's Legoland Discovery Centre will build a life-size replica of one lucky doggo. The celebratory date was actually this past Monday, but the competition runs until 11.59pm on Friday, September 2o. If you're already clearing a spot for your new Lego addition to the family — and wondering how your fluffball will react to their own likeness — you'll need to submit a photo of your pooch on the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page, specifically to its competition post. You'll also need to explain why your dachshund or dalmatian should get the Lego treatment, which shouldn't be hard. Serve up the best answer, and a master builder (yes, that's a real thing) will recreate your dog with in tiny plastic bricks. While the contest terms and conditions don't require entrants to live in Melbourne, the winner will be unveiled there in November — and you'll need to head by in person to pick up your prize. You'll also need to like the Legoland Discovery Centre's Facebook page to enter, and include your pet's name, age, breed and one crazy fact about them with your submission. If your canine can walk on its hind legs or bark to a tune, don't keep that detail to yourself. To enter the Lego Dog Competition, visit the Legoland Discovery Centre Facebook page before 11.59pm on Friday, September 2o.
"Do you remember the first time you saw a dinosaur?" asks Bryce Dallas Howard in the latest instalment of the Jurassic Park franchise. We do. It was 25 years ago, as John Williams' iconic score built to its majestic climax and the cast of Steven Spielberg's iconic blockbuster rose from the seats of their jeep, tore off their glasses and stared wide-eyed at a beautiful, towering Brachiosaurus. It's been a quarter of a century since the first Jurassic Park captured the imagination of moviegoers the world over and ushered in the brave new world of CGI-enhanced filmmaking. The whole thing was classic Spielberg: a rollicking, family-friendly adventure that pushed the boundaries of innovation whilst remaining grounded in entirely relatable human stories. Its extraordinary success made sequels inevitable, but unfortunately none except perhaps 1997's The Lost World have come even close to recapturing the magic and wonder of the original. In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom we have a film significantly better than its immediate predecessor, yet one that still falls well short of the bar set back in 1993. Much of the problem with this instalment lies with the franchise's so-called villains. In Jurassic Park the combination was perfect: flawed human antagonists in Dennis Nedry and John Hammond, existential menace in the form of technological hubris, and, of course, those dinosaurs. Between the thuggery of the T-Rex, the cunning of the raptors and the toxic spit of the Dilophosaurus, every step through the failing park held unbearable peril for its characters, instilling a dread that overflowed into the audience. Since then, however, the Jurassic movies have relied largely on a generic recurring villain: InGen, the unscrupulous genetics corporation behind all that Dino-DNA splicing. Even worse, the raptors and T-Rex have become, thanks to their broad popularity, inadvertent heroes, leaving the Dino-threat to come from species that never even existed. Here again in Fallen Kingdom it's that same formula at play: InGen is secretly cooking up some new dinosaurs to sell as weapons (still as ridiculous a concept as it was in Jurassic World), and the big scary dinosaur is a genetically-engineered ultra raptor. Around them are cookie-cutter human bad-guys in the form of mercenaries, big game hunters and money-hungry suits, as well as franchise regular Dr. Henry Wu (B.D. Wong), the original Jurassic Park geneticist who continues to learn precisely zero from all his past mistakes. There is still a lot of fun to be had here, and even a few unexpected feels as director J.A Bayona (A Monster Calls) reminds us that monsters of choice are always worse than monsters of instinct. The film's central conceit, too, is a compelling one: a volcano on the island upon which the dinosaurs currently reside is poised to erupt, meaning they will again become extinct without human intervention. To rescue or not to rescue becomes the burning question for Owen Grady (Chris Pratt), Claire Dearing (Dallas Howard) and returning fan favourite Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum). InGen, predictably, wants the animals saved for far less noble reasons than preservation. The scenes set on the island are the strongest in the movie, and include perhaps the most affecting moment in the entire franchise in the form of a heart-wrenching callback to that iconic Brachiosaurus shot from all those years ago. Thereafter, Fallen Kingdom transforms into a semi Gothic horror film as the action shifts to an isolated mansion in which the characters are stalked by Wu's latest creation. Toby Jones and James Cromwell give spirited performances during this phase, but the weaknesses of the script refuse to be covered up. The bad get eaten whilst the good survive, and it honestly never feels like our heroes are in any genuine peril. As part two of a planned trilogy, the end-point of Fallen Kingdom certainly offers some interesting possibilities for the final instalment. That said, absent a more nuanced and, dare we say, sympathetic villain, this franchise, like Dr. Wu, seems destined to repeat the mistakes of its past. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vn9mMeWcgoM
Stay tuned. More info on its way.
This is a boutique worth browsing if you're keen on getting this season's must-haves for your wardrobe. Come As You Are houses international and Australian labels such as Hunkydory, Enza Costa, Janine Edwards and Joie. The shop assistants are armed with threads that will have you achieving that effortless cool look. You'll find casual comfort basics to sports-luxe clothing and a few playful summer playsuits thrown in for fun. The more elegant slips and dresses are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It's not a store for wallflowers — think statement silk shirts from Equipment, J Brand lamb-skin leather pants and zebra-print drawstring pants for that Paddington Markets run on Saturdays.
If there's one thing Sydneysiders like, it's watching Studio Ghibli films. Understandably, a whole heap of cinemas and bars around town have been happy to oblige, hosting their own events dedicated to the Japanese animation house. Now, the Art Gallery of NSW is getting on board. Fans will get yet another chance to catch Studio Ghibli's gorgeous features, when the gallery hosts weekly screenings in its Domain Theatre every Saturday afternoon between January 11 and February 8. Yes, you'll feel like you've been Spirited Away once again. Other Hayao Miyazaki favourites on the program include Kiki's Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke and My Neighbour Totoro. Pom Poko, by Studio Ghibli director Isao Takahata, also makes an appearance on the lineup. If you've missed these films in their limited cinema runs or fest appearances in the past, consider this your chance to catch up (and at only $12 per session).
It's the film that first made the world fall in love with Hugh Grant, screenwriter Richard Curtis and their brand of British rom-coms — and, just like everything else with a well-known name in the entertainment game, Four Weddings and a Funeral has made a return. This time around, the hit flick has been remade as an American TV miniseries. If you're unsurprisingly a little skeptical, the news that Mindy Kaling is one of the show's creators and writers should change that. Kaling's six-season sitcom The Mindy Project was basically a long-running ode to the romantic comedy genre, complete with plenty of references to plenty of classic flicks. As a result, reworking one of the huge rom-com successes of the past quarter-century really does feel like the logical next step. Across a ten-episode series made for US streaming service Hulu, the latest version of Four Weddings and a Funeral follows four American friends who meet up in London for a wedding. Clearly, given the title, three more ceremonies are in their future, as is a tearful farewell to someone they know. The show tracks a year in their lives, their romantic escapades and even political scandals — all with a cast that includes Game of Thrones' Nathalie Emmanuel as Maya, plus Rebecca Rittenhouse (The Mindy Project), Brandon Mychal Smith (You're the Worst) and John Reynolds (Search Party) as her best buddies. Nikesh Patel (Doctor Who) also features as Maya's potential love interest, who she first encounters in an airport meet cute, naturally. And while Hugh Grant doesn't show up — sorry, 90s obsessives — original Four Weddings star Andie MacDowell does. Because Kaling isn't averse to nodding to other rom-com favourites of the era, My Best Friend's Wedding's Dermot Mulroney also makes an appearance. The series actually dropped in America in 2019, but it's now making its way to Australian viewers via streaming platform Stan. If you're looking for something to watch over your summer break, it'll be available in full from Friday, December 18. Watch the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oe8trFdvJPU Four Weddings and a Funeral drops on Stan on Friday, December 18.
Having run The Newport since March 2016, Merivale decided it was about time to add something new to the sprawling northern beaches venue. And this weekend it will open Bert's, a brasserie and bar brimming with oysters and lobster. As we've come to expect from Merivale, Bert's won't be doing anything by halves. Getting its inspiration from the 1930s — when hotel dining rooms were grand destinations — the restaurant will be an extravaganza of jade green and coral pink, with an open kitchen as its centrepiece. The menu, sorted out by executive chef Jordan Toft, aims to transport you to some fancy European seaside resort. Look out for a dedicated raw bar, crowded with oysters, mud crab and brioche canapés, and a larder loaded with charcuterie and salads. Among the decadent mains are lobster (straight from the tank, mind you), a few steaks and a whole fish, baked in a charcoal oven or cooked over the grill. "We want to create that sense of relaxed indulgence you experience on a coastal European holiday — to capture the feeling when you decide to order the fresh lobster or relax into the afternoon with champagne and oysters," said Toft. Walking in, you won't be able to miss the cellar of 750 wines, put together by master sommelier Franck Moreau. Its contents include a selection of European drops, an array of rose (including Jeroboam), plenty of Aussie classics and a bunch of left-field bottles from creative labels, such as Lucy Margaux 'Wildman' and Patrick Sullivan 'Windy Cottage'. Meanwhile, Sam Egerton and his team will be hard at work in the cocktail bar, mixing new versions of old classics using seasonal produce. Egerton's favourite is a take on the Royale, with vodka, ginger cordial, Champagne and finger lime caviar. Needless to say, Bert's comes with gob-smacking views, of both The Newport's expansive outdoor area and stunning sparkling Pittwater. This isn't Merivale's only northern beaches venue, either — the group is set to open The Collaroy (which it bought in August last year) nearby very soon. Bert's opened on Sunday, January 21 at The Newport, 2 Kalinya Street, Newport. It's open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. For more information, visit merivale.com.au/thenewport. Updated: January 23, 2018
Since emerging out of Byron Bay in 2006, Afends has made a name for itself through its creative and eco-friendly blends of street- and surfwear. Founded by Declan Wise and Jonathan Salfield as a way of producing merch for local punk and hardcore bands, the brand now boasts stores across NSW and VIC, as well as shipping its inventive range of products worldwide. Collaborations have always been a big part of the Afends brand and the latest is possibly its most fun yet. The northern NSW brand is coming together with female-led cannabis-loving media agency Broccoli for a trippy new summer collection. Broccoli runs a thrice-yearly magazine, podcast and twice-weekly newsletter all based on content related to weed and weed-adjacent topics. The marriage of the two brands is a match made in heaven with Afends making use of marijuana's non-psychedelic sibling hemp in their clothes in order to make them more environmentally sustainable. The Afends x Broccoli collab prominently features an optical illusion by Byron Bay artist Josh Galletly. The psychedelic pattern is sure to be a real treat for those that might engage with Broccoli's favourite subject. Highlights from the collection include a huge beach-ready tote, the hemp-based wide-leg pants and unisex collared shirt, and a one-piece bathing suit made from recycled nylon. To explore the full slate of clothes, head to the Afends website, and to stay up to date with all of Broccoli's weed-based conversations, head to the Broccoli Mag Instagram page. The Afends x Broccoli collection is now available from the Afends website and offers worldwide shipping.
GetSashimi is Campbell Parade's fast-paced sashimi bar specialising in affordably priced fresh seafood. The no-fuss Bondi spot is open seven days a week, with both a shopfront and restaurant offering seafood fiends the chance to grab a sushi- and sashimi-filled lunch on the premises, or pick up high-quality fish to take home and incorporate into home cooking. As you enter, you'll be greeted with an eight-metre-long sashimi cabinet filled with raw tuna, scallops, oysters, abalone, salmon and everything in between. While the quality is top-notch, the price tag is incredibly reasonable. Case in point, in-demand items like yellowfin tuna will only set you back $12.99 per 100 grams. There are plenty of sushi options including nigiri tuna belly, salmon raspberry gunkan maki, tuna rolls and tempura prawn rolls — plus a selection of poke bowls topped with salmon, tuna, kingfish or mixed sashimi. Order a to-go box of everything you want, or nab a spot at the 18-seat sashimi train-style dine-in setup and take your pick of the chef's selections for the day as they travel past you.
Beloved inner west brewery Hawke's Brewing Co's newly built 2100-square-metre Marrickville brewery is set to play home to a brand new venue paying homage to 1980s pubs and the beer's namesake. The brewery has announced its flagship venue, The Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre, will open on Thursday, March 31, boasting a retro fit-out, a bistro and the full range of Hawke's beers. The 300-seat venue comes on the cusp of Hawke's five-year anniversary. Inside you'll find a pub or community centre style restaurant and bar, decked out with wood panelling inspired by Old Parliament House. As you walk through the venue, you'll find walls lined with steel brewing tanks, a patio area, and a pool room, filled with Bob Hawke memorabilia. Food-wise, patrons can enjoy The Lucky Prawn, an 80's Chinese-Australian bistro that the Hawke's team has created with help from Nic Wong (Cho Cho San, Bodega). The food is nostalgic, just like the rest of the venue. There's prawn toast, san cho bao, honey king prawn, sizzling beef and the mother of all nostalgic creations, deep-fried Viennetta. While a Hawke's brew is obviously the recommended beverage of choice at The Lucky Prawn, you can also order a $14 bottle of Crown Larger for special occasions. [caption id="attachment_848331" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] "While we named the venue in his honour, we were mindful of being sycophantic and simply plastering imagery of Hawkie all over the place," Hawke's co-Founder Nathan Lennon says. "I think we've achieved a balance that pays tribute to Bob in the Pool Room, while delivering an authentic Australian experience throughout the rest of the space." While the venue is drenched in nostalgia, Lennon and fellow owner David Gibson wanted to ensure it was also sustainable and future-focused. The brewery is run with the help of a 100-kilowatt rooftop solar farm, and houses several eco-innovations alongside the venue. The building's carbon capture system which was developed with UTS Tech uses carbon-dioxide from the beer's fermentation to help grow plants and vegetables to be used in the venue. [caption id="attachment_848327" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The James Adams[/caption] The Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre is located at 8–12 Sydney Street, Marrickville. It is set to open on Thursday, March 31 and will be open midday–11pm Wednesdays, midday–midnight Thursday–Saturday and midday–10pm Sundays. Images: Nikki To and The James Adams
What happens when you take the Australian teen series of the 90s and update it to the 2020s, all while riding a huge wave of nostalgia for all things stemming from three decades back? Even thanks to just the first part of that equation, every fan of beloved 1994–99 hit Heartbreak High could've told you that the end result would be a smash. And, streaming on Netflix since September, that's exactly how the ace new Heartbreak High revival has turned out — so much so that there's going to be a second season. No one has been saying "rack off" to the Sydney-set show's latest run, or its new batch of Hartley High teens, or their fresh dose of teen chaos. Not Aussie audiences, with the series sitting in Netflix's top ten TV shows in the country for the five weeks since its release. Not global viewers either, with Heartbreak High 2.0 also reaching the top ten in more than 43 countries, including in the US and across Europe, Africa and Asia — and spending three weeks in the global top ten, too. The streaming platform also advises that its subscribers clocked up 42.6 million hours watching Heartbreak High in three weeks. That's not bad for the latest high school-focused revival, doing what Beverly Hills, 90210 did, plus Saved by the Bell and Gossip Girl as well, but with a firmly Aussie spin. Unsurprisingly, Netflix has greenlit Heartbreak High for a second season, although exactly when it'll drop hasn't been revealed. Still, if you're keen to spend more time with Amerie (Ayesha Madon, The Moth Effect), Harper (Asher Yasbincek, How to Please a Woman), Darren (screen first-timer James Majoos), Quinni (Chloe Hayden, Jeremy the Dud), Dusty (Josh Heuston, Thor: Love and Thunder), Ca$h (Will McDonald, Home and Away), Malakai (Thomas, Troppo), Spider (Bryn Chapman Parish, Mr Inbetween), Ant (debutant Brodie Townsend), Sasha (Gemma Chua-Tran, Mustangs FC) and Missy (fellow newcomer Sherry-Lee Watson), start getting excited now. Season one started with Amerie becoming a pariah at Hartley after a big revelation — an "incest map" plotting out who's hooked up with who throughout the school — and also struggling with a sudden rift in her friendship with bestie Harper. Attempting to repair her reputation, she calls on help from her new pals Quinni and Darren, all while working through her crush on Dusty and developing feelings for Malakai. And that's just the start of Heartbreak High's 2022-set story so far. It was back in 2020 that Netflix initially announced that it was bringing the series back — and yes, it sure is a 2020s-era take on the Aussie classic. Adolescent chaos is still the main focus, including everything from friendship fights, yelling about vaginas from the top of a building and throwing dildos at walls through to consent, crime, drugs and police brutality. The original Heartbreak High was a massive deal, and was filled with now-familiar faces, including Alex Dimitriades, a pre-Home and Away Ada Nicodemou, and Avengers: Endgame and Mystery Road's Callan Mulvey as Drazic. It painted a multicultural picture of Australia that was unlike anything else on TV at the time. And, for its six-year run across two Aussie networks, the Sydney-shot show was must-see television — not bad for a series that started as a spinoff to the Claudia Karvan and Alex Dimitriades-starring 1993 movie The Heartbreak Kid, too. Check out the trailer for the new Heartbreak High below: Heartbreak High season two doesn't yet have a release date — we'll update you when one is announced. The show's first season is available to stream now via Netflix. Read our full review.
