Luke's Kitchen – Luke Mangan's restaurant at Kimpton Margot Sydney hotel in the CBD – is taking bottomless brunches to a new level. On the first Saturday of every month, the eatery is being taken over by music, trivia and costume competitions – while, for $99, guests dine on five courses alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing wine. Among the dishes, you'll find ocean trout sashimi, roast lamb cutlets with eggplant chutney, and strawberry cheesecake. Meanwhile, on the drinks list are rosé and sparkling wine – and you could add cocktails for an extra $46, or Taittinger Champagne for an extra $106. Plus, for $50, you'll be presented with an Ossetra caviar bump with a shot of Beluga vodka. Running the party will be DJ Sheba Williams, who'll be singing, dancing and asking trivia questions while you feast. And you're invited to attend in fancy dress for your chance to win the best-dressed bruncher of the day. There's a different theme each month. Wear a sequined jumpsuit on Saturday, May 3, to celebrate Mamma Mia; a raspberry beret on Saturday, June 7, to mark Prince's turn in the house; and a feather boa on Saturday, July 5, to get a little Gatsby. Margot's Bottomless is slated to run monthly between now and November. See the full menu here, and book on this page.
Croissants can be found in pretty much every cafe, bakery, supermarket and weekend market in the country. So it's a true endorsement of the calibre of Lune's croissants that mammoth queues have been a familiar sight at the bakery's original Elwood outpost and its larger successor in Fitzroy, Melbourne. Sydneysiders have been waiting a long time to form their own line for a Lune croissant and now, after five years (and a few false starts), the first Harbour City outpost of the much-hyped croissanterie is ready to welcome its first punters on December 7. The date was announced on Lune's Instagram account with the simple message: "Sydney, let the games begin." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lune Croissanterie (@lunecroissant) Melburnians may have reason to be jealous of Sydney's croissant lovers. The Rosebery branch of Lune will be its largest to date. Located within a renovated warehouse, more than 65 staff will be hustling to produce the more than 5400 golden, buttery scrolls of perfectly puffed pastry sold every day. Better yet, a satellite store in Martin Place is set to open not long after the Rosebery branch, offering Sydneysiders even greater access to Lune's bounty of baked treats. Lune's founder Kate Reid started the business as a humble wholesale operation 12 years ago. Since then, she has not only grown the brand into a multi-venue success but has also earned global recognition, including Lune's croissants being declared the best in the world by The New York Times and cookbook icon Yotam Ottolenghi insisting they be "the prototype for all others". However, despite this incandescent praise, Lune's arrival in Sydney has been a hard-won battle, dogged by failed partnerships and stalled developments. A 2019 proposal to bring Lune to Chippendale was scuttled by pandemic shutdowns while a second attempt to open a branch in Darlinghurst was upended by building limitations on a heritage-listed site. A third potential venue in Martin Place offered an ideal location but was too small to support a commercial bakery on the scale that would be necessary. Meanwhile, as plans to open in Sydney remained in limbo, Lune opened its first Queensland location in Brisbane. [caption id="attachment_953899" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Reid[/caption] Determined to make a Sydney bakery a reality, Reid and her brother Cameron began scouting potential locations, finally discovering a venue of the size needed in Rosebery. Indeed, the space is so substantial, that it has created an opportunity for Lune to expand its offering. While the bakery is a production hub, also baking croissants for sale in Martin Place, it also has space for seated customers. Much like its sister venue in Fitzroy, there is a temperature-controlled glass cube where bakers work in view of hungry punters. Plans for the future include the introduction of the Lune Lab, which will create experimental tasting menus featuring both sweet and savory dishes in collaboration with notable chefs, such as Kylie Kwong. In addition to its signature croissant, both Sydney outlets will serve coffee from Ona, a rotating seasonal pastry and a selection of Lune favourites including its pain au chocolat, ham and gruyere croissants and morning buns flavoured with cinnamon, brown sugar and orange zest. Find Lune Croissanterie at 115/151 Dunning Ave, Rosebery, open from December 7. For more details visit the Lune Sydney website.
Are you searching for somewhere to wine and dine in Sydney over the long weekend? There's no shortage of cafes, restaurants and bars around town that are dishing up the goods in celebration of the king's birthday. Here are a few spots that are open, ready to fill your belly and whet your whistle. Restaurants: The Botanist, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday: 12–10pm The Butcher's Block Barangaroo, Saturday, Sunday: 8am–late, Monday: 8am–3pm Coogee Pavilion, Saturday, Sunday: 7.30am–late, Monday: 11am–midnight House Bar at Barangaroo House, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday, Monday: 12–10pm House Canteen, Saturday: 7.30am–11pm, Sunday: 7.30am–12pm, Monday: 7.30am–11pm Little Pearl, Saturday: 7am–late, Sunday, Monday: 7am–10pm Loulou Bistro, Saturday, Sunday: 11.30am–11pm Loulou Boulangerie & Traiteur, Saturday–Monday: 7am–4pm Lotus Barangaroo, Saturday–Monday: 12–3pm, 5.30–9.30pm Opera Bar, Saturday: 11–12.30am, Sunday: 11am–10pm, Monday 11am–11pm Reign, Saturday: 10am–11pm, Sunday: 10am–6pm, Monday: 11am–8pm Untied, Saturday: 11am–late, Sunday: 12–10pm, Monday: 12–10pm [caption id="attachment_848714" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Vic on the Park[/caption] Bars and Pubs: Albion Hotel, Saturday: 10–6am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10–4am The Abercrombie, Saturday: 12pm–5am, Sunday: 12pm–6am, Monday: 12pm–2am The Bank, Saturday: 10–4am, Sunday: 12pm–midnight, Monday: 10–2am Cargo Bar, Saturday–Monday: 11.30am–2am The Clock Hotel, Saturday: 11.30am–10pm, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 11.30am–midnight The Courthouse Hotel, Saturday: 12pm–midnight, Sunday: 12–10pm, Monday: 12pm–midnight Darlo Bar, Saturday–Monday: 12pm–midnight The Dolphin, Saturday, Sunday: 11.30am–midnight, Monday: 12–10pm The Erko, Saturday: 10am–midnight, Sunday: 10am–10pm, Monday: 10am–midnight The Golden Sheaf, Saturday: 10am–2am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10am–1am Kings Cross Hotel, Saturday: 10am–3:30am, Sunday: 12pm–midnight, Monday: 10am–3.30am The Marlborough Hotel, Saturday: 10am–4am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10–4am Paddo Inn, Saturday: 12pm–1am, Sunday–Monday: 12–10pm Public House Petersham, Saturday: 12pm–1am, Sunday–Monday: 12pm–midnight The Royal Paddington, Saturday: 11am—midnight, Sunday: 11am—10pm, Monday: 11am—midnight The Strand, Saturday: 10am–3am, Sunday: 10am–midnight, Monday: 10am–10pm Top image: Grant Angus.
It looks like it's going to be a while longer yet before you can jet off on that next sunny holiday to the Greek islands. So why not let them come to you? A breezy new Greek meze bar has opened its doors in the heart of Bondi Beach, named and inspired by the tiny Aegean island of Ikaria. Here, husband-and-wife duo Joaquin Saez (Alberto's Lounge, Cho Cho San, co-owner of La Palma) and Emily Abay are bringing a taste of the Mediterranean coast to Sydney's own stretch of beachside paradise. You're invited to step through the door and embrace the Ikarian philosophy of life, centred around celebration, happiness and enjoyment. Fashion photographer Abay has helmed the design, creating a tranquil vision of archways, whitewashed walls and neutral-toned tiles, framed by sweeping views across the water. It's a holiday vibe, to be sure. Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Robert Young (Quay, Born by Tapavino, the UK's Restaurant Martin Wishart), who is turning out a share-focused menu peppered with plenty of Mediterranean flavours. You'll find the likes of an Ikarian-style taramasalata served with warm pita for dipping ($7), saganaki finished with chestnut honey ($19) and crisp zucchini chips matched with tzatziki ($11). Octopus is grilled, and teamed with lukanika (a type of sausage), radicchio and endives ($28), while salsa verde finishes a dish of Greek-style lamb meatballs ($26). Ikaria's wine offering is diverse for its size, featuring mostly European labels, alongside a handful of local beers and Greece's Mythos lager ($10-12). But if you're really embracing those vacation feels, expect to be tempted by the cocktail list, which stars sips both classic and original. There's a riff on the martini, crafted with olive gin and rosemary thyme vermouth ($22), and the striking Blue Zone ($23) — a fusion of tequila, blue curaçao, cucumber agave and rosemary smoke.
For many of us, the ideal getaway doesn't involve much more than lazing by a pool, perhaps with a cheeky bev in hand. At Sun Ranch — a sprawling 55-acre coastal estate in the Byron Bay hinterland, just two minutes from Bangalow — you can do exactly that, or go full cosmic cowboy with sound baths, horseback rides and stargazing beside a firepit. The self-described "boutique micro resort" is the vision of a collective of mates from across the creative and hospitality industries, and it shows — not just in the impressive suite of on-site experiences available, but also in the property's design. Inspired by the likes of Oxfordshire's Soho Farmhouse and Ojai Rancho Inn and Post Ranch Inn in California, Sun Ranch is simultaneously laidback and unmistakably luxe, blending the nostalgia of 70s Californian ranch houses with subtle Spanish influences and modern elegance. [caption id="attachment_1012681" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] The ranch is anchored by The Rambler Longhouse, a north-facing guesthouse with four private ensuite bedrooms — each with direct access to the private pool just off the patio — and a detached one-bedroom suite. For extra privacy, there are six two-bedroom barns deeper into the property, which are completely off-grid. Each spacious barn boasts a fireplace with a custom daybed, an outdoor living space with a barbecue and an outdoor shower — not to mention uninterrupted views of the Byron hinterland beyond. It's luxe living with low impact: the barns are self-sufficient in electricity and water, the main guesthouse uses a hybrid of solar, battery and minimal grid power, and the estate runs entirely on rainwater. Beyond the lodgings, The Rambler Longhouse is also home to communal spaces like The Lair, an airy sunken lounge complete with a fireplace, and The Whiskey Lounge, a dramatic space centred around a low-set burgundy velvet sofa and made with a nightcap in mind. There's no restaurant on-site, but there is a complimentary daily breakfast that showcases produce from local growers, and an all-day menu that can be enjoyed in The Rambler Longhouse or poolside. [caption id="attachment_1011095" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] Speaking of the pool, there are plenty of ways to connect with nature here, and at any speed you like. Take a dip in the 25-metre basalt stone mineral pool — perched hillside and backed by a sweeping hinterland vista — or dust off your shuttlecock at the full-sized grass badminton court. The property also features a sun-washed, plant-framed outdoor recreation area, a dedicated wellness zone with ice baths, a woodfired floating sauna, a natural cedarwood sauna, and a two-megalitre dam with a jetty. However you spend the day, you won't want to miss sunset at Stoney Ridge Healing Circle: a picturesque area at the top of the property marked by giant boulders and centred around a firepit. It's also a prime spot for stargazing (with a glass of wine in hand, should you wish). [caption id="attachment_1011094" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart[/caption] Sun Ranch is also the holiday home of Byron Bay riding club Zephyr Horses, and you can explore the verdant landscape and creekside on a one-hour guided horseback tour. It's one of several add-ons that lean into the cosmic cowboy vibe — equine-assisted therapy, cacao ceremonies, astrology readings and tea ceremonies are also available. Top images: Anson Smart.
Summer is here, which means barbeques, beach trips, and, of course, school holidays. Sydneysiders with kids (or 'kidults') now at home are in luck, as Waterworld Central is returning for another year. Held at the Entertainment Quarter, Australia's largest inflatable waterpark is turning the school holidays into one giant, supersoaked adventure. Waterworld Central kicks off on Friday, January 9, 2026 and runs until Sunday, February 1, with sessions running from 10am to 4pm. [caption id="attachment_1046557" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Mitch Lowe, Waterworld Central[/caption] Waterworld Central is split into several inflatable attractions. Feel the rush on the massive wave slide, and beat the heat in the winter-themed Snow World Pool. You can float the day away in the Paddle Boat Pool, or unwind and chill in the Gorilla Pool. This year's slide lineup is designed for all kinds of families and friend groups, including thrill-seekers, toddler parents, and anyone who just wants to beat the heat. [caption id="attachment_1046558" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Waterworld Central[/caption] Spectators can enter for free if they don't fancy getting wet alongside the kiddos. But for those taking the plunge, you can nab an All-Day Super Pass (all ages) for $60. Otherwise, a two-hour stint costs $40 for individuals aged five and up, while a two-hour Toddler Pass (which includes a child under five and a supervising adult) also costs $40. If you're planning a summer birthday, group outing or family holiday catch-up, Waterworld Central also offers discounted group booking rates. Think of it as the ultimate way to cool down this summer holiday, and be sure to book your tickets in advance before the sessions sell out. Book your tickets here. Lead image credit: Waterworld Central
Air guitar enthusiasts will be treated to a garment that makes it even easier to live out their rock star fantasies. Old Navy have collaborated with ThinkGeek to create a shirt that not only features an image of a guitar, but also sounds like one when a button is pressed on the guitar neck and the hand is moved in a strumming motion. Sound is projected through a small guitar amp which can clip to your belt, with adjustable volume depending on how hard you're shredding. But make sure you detach all electronic parts before you throw this bad boy in the wash. Importantly, the design of the shirt also features flames to let everybody know that you're the real deal. See how far you can get into a Jimi Hendrix song on one of these. Wear this under a button-up to work, and only unleash it when you're ready to rock. [via PSFK]
All across New South Wales, stages are being swept, setlists are being finalised, speakers are being stress tested, and crowds are gearing up—because the statewide Great Southern Nights is just about to make its 2025 return. With well over 300 gigs taking place across 17 nights in cities and districts from Byron Bay to Broken Hill and beyond, it's going to be one hell of a festival. Midway up the NSW coastline, you'll find one of Great Southern Nights' hubs in the live music-loving city of Newcastle and the Newcastle Midtown Gig Trail set to host over 40 gigs across the festival's 17-night runtime. We've teamed up with Great Southern Nights to pick out the must-see entries on the lineup and some suggestions on how to stay busy between them. The Lineup The fun starts on Friday, March 21, with multi-disciplinary Filipino/Wiradjuri artist MO'JU at The Stag and Hunter Hotel in Mayfield, the five-piece Kiwi band SIX60 at NU's Bar on the Hill and EDM duo Slumberjack at King Street Nightclub. The following night, back at Bar on the Hill, late 80s/early 90s indie rock legends The Cruel Sea will take to the stage with some throwback hits and new recordings. To end the first weekend, solo multi-instrumentalist Running Touch and Melbourne-native indie rock quartet The Belair Lip Bombs will take over the King Street Warehouse on Sunday, March 23. The following weekend, on Saturday, March 29, legendary Aussie Blues and Roots soloist Xavier Rudd will be performing a bit out of town at Dashville Campground in Lower Belford. When the festival heads into April, expect a few hot gigs in the King Street Bandroom. Namely, the multi-platinum-winning rapper Winston Surfshirt on Friday, April 4; five-piece folk-rock group The Paper Kites on Saturday, April 5; and indie rock favourites Slowly Slowly on Sunday, April 6. If you find yourself with a free night, hit up the Newcastle Midtown District Gig Trail. Every night throughout the festival you'll find free gigs, performers, actors and more at seven venues in the heart of the action. That's just the tip of the iceberg, all sorts of gigs are set to take happen around the headliners. [caption id="attachment_938853" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Flotilla[/caption] Local Eats and Treats Newcastle is home to a buzzing blend of eateries to refuel between gigs; if anything, you'll end up pressed for time to hit all the venues around town. For a compact taster menu of what the city has to offer gastronomically, the Honeysuckle Foreshore is right in the centre of the city, close to Newcastle's premiere hotels, attractions and waterfronts. But if you're willing to go further afield, it'll pay off. Without leaving the city, you can enjoy Spanish tapas at Bocados or a sizeable yum cha feast (on Sundays) at Ginger Meg's, and if you like something a little fancier, there's sustainable seafood at Scottie's or curated cocktails and Italian feeds at Market St Basement. Should you find yourself a bit beyond the city lights, you can find an authentic Californian taqueria at Antojitos, and one of the most popular restaurants in the area is the famous Flotilla in Wickham. If you prefer to hit the streets and let the universe guide you to the eatery for you, you'll find casual options aplenty in Hamilton, eclectic, trendy small spots in Cooks Hill, while heading out west to the Hunter Valley will connect you with some of the top wineries in the country. Things to Do and Places to See Most of the GSN gigs on offer take place after dark, so what are you supposed to do beforehand? Glad you asked. One of Newcastle's most famous, accessible and affordable attractions is its ocean baths. Found along the Bather's Way, a six-kilometre walking track that traces the coast from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach, these pools (and the more secluded-yet-scenic Bogey Hole) are midway on the route and are recognised as some of the most scenic ocean pools in the country. If the sun is blazing and you'd rather stay indoors and dodge the steps, the Newcastle Museum is a great place to learn some local history, as is the Fort Scratchley Historic Site if military history is your jam, being the only fort in Australia to engage enemy combatants in maritime defence during WWII. For a dose of First Nations history and culture, take a guided tour through the towering sand dunes of the Worimi Conservation Lands. Where to Spend the Night The many facets of Newcastle's identity are plain to see in the accommodation options throughout the city. The QT hotel group is known for bold interiors and luxury by the pound — and QT Newcastle is no exception. A love for music and the arts and Newcastle's prominent surf culture can be felt at this dynamic stay. Set in a heritage building with waterfront views, the hotel also boasts one of Newcastle's finest rooftop bars and an on-site luxury restaurant that exclusively serves local produce. If you want to be as close to the water as possible, it's tough to get closer than Noah's On the Beach. A literal stone's throw from the surf break of Newcastle Beach, staying here means you'll be sent off to sleep by the sounds of the sea. And though you could be catered for with the onsite eatery, you'd be well within walking distance from the Newcastle CBD. If you want something further from the action (45 minutes further, to be precise) but don't want to skimp on the luxury, secure a booking at Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows. South of Newcastle behind Caves Beach, this resort property brings a touch of the Hamptons and a pinch of the Maldives to the mid-north NSW coast. With bungalows, townhouses and villas available for booking and the luxurious restaurant Caves Coastal, this is the perfect place for larger groups looking to explore the surrounds of Newcastle. Great Southern Nights is set to take over venues across NSW between Friday, March 21 and Sunday, April 6. Check out our gig guides for Sydney, the Central Coast and Wollongong or visit the website for more information.
Hay St Market is going all-in on festive cheer, rolling out Christmas celebrations until Sunday, December 21. Expect festive food, live music, themed weekends and plenty of family-friendly fun as the precinct transforms into one of Sydney's merriest holiday destinations. For the entire month of December, Hay St will serve up its curated Christmas menu, featuring favourite festive dishes such as brown sugar and orange-glazed ham ciabatta, roasted turkey and pork belly sausage roll, prawn cocktail, boozy fruit mince tarts, and Christmas trifle. Over at the Traders Bar, two seasonal cocktails are taking the spotlight: the Nutcracker, a mix of rum, peanut butter whiskey, Frangelico and cream, as well as the Crimson Noel, blending rosemary gin, cranberry, cinnamon and ginger beer. On Friday, December 19, Hay St is throwing an Ugly Christmas T-Shirt and Jumper Party complete with Christmas movie trivia, live entertainment and prizes. It's ideal for groups (including end-of-year work parties) looking to dial up the festive chaos and get into the Christmas spirit. Music lovers can soak up Hay St Sounds: Christmas Edition, which features a rotating line-up of weekly live performances, Christmas carolers and seasonal tunes running right up until Sunday, December 21. On Saturday, December 20, Hay St will host a tribute night to Mr Christmas himself, Michael Bublé (why, who were you thinking of?). It'll be an evening of all smooth Christmas hits to soundtrack your festive market indulging. There's also loads of family-friendly fun at Hay St Market with the Elf on the Shelf Treasure Hunt, as well as face painting, and Christmas cookie decorating on select weekends. Be sure to head to Hay St Markets this Christmas season to soak up the festive spirit for yourself. Discover the full Christmas line-up and plan your festive visit at Hay St Market. Image Credit: Supplied
Macquarie Park's multi-level neighbourhood pub and entertainment venue The Governor Hotel welcomed an exciting new Cantonese restaurant with a hatted chef at the helm in August 2022. JINJA has made its home on level one of the expansive venue, bringing XO southern lobster scallop dumplings and a specialty tea dispensary to northwest Sydney. Now, seven months on, JINJA has introduced a yum cha service, which is available for lunch Wednesday–Sunday. The menu spans favourites from Cantonese brunch, highlights from the restaurant's usual menu and western yum cha standards — plus bottomless Keemun black tea for $5 per person. Steamed barbecue pork and mushroom buns lead the way alongside a classic dumpling roster. There's also chicken sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf, pork ribs, barbecue roast duck, spring onion pancakes, a congee and soup selection, and plenty of favourites hot off the wok including broccoli in oyster sauce, truffle fried rice, and salt and pepper squid. While you won't find any mango pancakes, there's a few fun dessert options if you want to conclude your yum cha with something a little sweet. Choose between custard buns, coconut mango pudding and golden lotus paste rolls. While the bottomless tea is the go-to drink option during yum cha, there's an array of beverages that you can add to your experience. Take your pick from the 17 traditional Chinese teas on offer, as well as a boundary-pushing cocktail list and more than 100 local and international wines. Leading the kitchen and pulling together these yum cha delights at JINJA is Head Chef Sebastian Tan, who previously ran the hatted Silks and Teahouse out of the Crown Sydney. JINJA is located at Level 1, The Governor Hotel, 9 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park. It's open for lunch Wednesday–Sunday and dinner Wednesday–Saturday. Yum cha is available 12–2pm Wednesday–Sunday. Images: Steven Woodburn.
Awarded Unearthed Artist of the Year at the 10th annual J Awards last night, Meg Mac — or Megan McInerney to her folks — is the Melbourne-based soul-pop artist making a serious name for herself in the indie music scene. The 23-year-old singer songwriter has come a long way from recording lyrics on her phone while still in high school. If her fast-growing fan-base, sell-out performances and distinctive, soulful sound are anything to go by, McInerney is definitely one to watch. Here are the top five things you should know about her. She's no one-hit wonder Though you may have already heard her powerful first single 'Known Better' played on triple j in the lead-up to the J Awards, don't overlook McInerney's more recent tracks. These songs showcase her bold, rich vocals – think 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' – as well as her talent for raw, personal lyrics — check out 'Every Lie'. 'Turning' also highlights the soul-meets-electronica sound she's developing, a unique style that has already captivated audiences. She takes cues from Motown, Irish folk and French chansons McInerney recently admitted to triple j Unearthed that, when she was nine, "I could not get enough of Vanessa Amorosi… please don't judge me. 'Absolutely Everybody' was my favourite." Lucky, then, that her dad introduced her to soul, primarily Motown, while her mum would sing her Irish folk ballads from an early age. It wasn't until she was 17 that she started writing her own songs and working on a personal style, inspired by her love of "big voices and a bit of that drama — [artists who] sing because they have to or they would die sort of thing, like Edith Piaf". She also counts Ray Charles and Sam Cooke among her primary influences, and more recently, James Blake and Frank Ocean. She's going from strength to strength It's an understatement to say 2014 has been a big year for the up-and-coming artist. In September she released her first EP, the self-titled MEGMAC, featuring four original tracks plus an impressive cover of a classic Bill Wither's song, 'Grandma's Hands'. The EP launch kicked off a national tour, with Melbourne and Sydney shows selling out in days, and Brisbane and Perth following soon after. Later nominated as Breakthrough Independent Artist of the Year, McInerney opened the Australian Indie Music Awards in October. #dogswearinghats A photo posted by MEGMAC (@megmacmusic) on Oct 10, 2014 at 12:11am PDT Her second favourite thing to do is dress up animals in human clothing When she isn't performing or making music, McInerney likes nothing better than to play dress ups with her dog. She told Music Feeds that she and her sister sent a photo of their pet to the Facebook page Dogs Wearing Hats, where "she got more Facebook likes than my whole music page in one hour." Following her knock-out live performances, its safe to say this is about to change. . @megmacmusic @kcrw So very welcome — Jason Kramer (KCRW) (@kcrwkramer) August 13, 2014 An international career is on the horizon While McInerney is gaining a serious fan base here, she's also making waves internationally, with 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' recently played on independent US radio station KCRW. The singer is already considering a trip to the US, where, she told Music Feeds, she'll "catch up with some label type people [who] want to meet me. It is exciting to think I can reach people away from my home." You can catch her at Falls Festival for NYE But before she jets off, McInerney will be taking on her first major festival as winner of the Falls Festival competition. Next to the likes of John Butler Trio, La Roux, Vance Joy and Empire of the Sun, she'll be performing some newly written songs with her sister as backing vocalist. Expect more bold piano sounds, big vocals and electronic elements from this promising young artist with a big future ahead of her.
Located within The Hills District, just 1.5-hours north of the CBD, the Rouse Hill Regional Park is a bush escape set within the Sydney boundaries. Your dog is allowed on-leash throughout the park (except for in the hired pavilions and children's play areas). Go for a jog around the short but sweet Second Ponds Creek Walking Track, which is mostly flat but will get your heart pumping. The scenic trail will take you through woodlands and past the park's picturesque pond. After your bit of exercise, relax on the grass or enjoy a barbecue in the picnic area — just be sure to share those snags with your best mate. Image: NSW National Parks & Wildlife
For years, French wine has carried a reputation that's both revered and, let's be honest, a little intimidating. Grand Cru? Appellation d'Origine Protégée? It can all feel like a secret language. But beyond the codes and classifications lies a truth worth rediscovering: French wine is less about labels and more about land. And today, a new generation of producers is making that land speak louder — with clarity, purpose and a surprising accessibility that's finally reaching Australian tables. Read on for our guide to French wines, their Aussie lookalikes and what you should be drinking them with. The Loire: Fresh, Crisp and Perfect With Seafood Sauvignon blanc drinkers used to wines from the Adelaide Hills or Marlborough will find familiarity — and perhaps surprise — in the Loire's restrained, mineral expressions. Stretching from the Atlantic coast to the heart of central France, the Loire Valley produces some of the most food-friendly wines. It's one of the country's most diverse and dynamic regions, and one that pairs beautifully with Australia's seasonal, produce-driven cuisine. Sancerre, Reuilly and Pouilly-Fumé offer crisp, flinty sauvignon blancs that elevate seafood, fresh cheeses and vegetables with vibrant acidity. Ordering oysters at a restaurant? Skip the sparkling and go for a Loire sauvignon instead — it'll slice through the brininess with razor-sharp freshness. Quincy adds a floral, zesty touch, ideal with grilled fish or salads. For reds, cabernet franc brings a lighter touch: bright-fruited, low in tannin and full of charm. Pair it with charcuterie, grilled vegetables or a Sunday roast chicken. [caption id="attachment_1018160" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Burgundy: Precision Rooted in Exceptional Terroir Pinot noir lovers from Tasmania or the Mornington Peninsula will feel at home, but Burgundy adds a savoury depth that's worth exploring. If Bordeaux built its prestige on boldness, Burgundy built its legacy on nuance. Here, pinot noir and chardonnay are the stars — two grapes Australians already know well, but in Burgundy they show another side. Pinot noir here is savoury, earth-driven and age-worthy. If you love Tasmanian pinot, you'll recognise the elegance but with less fruit and more mushroom, spice and forest floor. It's perfect with duck breast, mushroom risotto or soft cheeses such as brie. Chardonnay shifts depending on its village — from steely and mineral in Chablis (picture it with freshly shucked prawns and grilled fish) to rich and nutty in Meursault (ideal with lobster, roast chicken or creamy pasta). [caption id="attachment_688735" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kristoffer Paulsen[/caption] The Rhône Valley: Warmth, Spice and Balance Fans of Barossa shiraz or GSM blends from McLaren Vale will find Rhône reds comfortingly familiar — but with lifted aromatics and distinctly European restraint. Stretching from Lyon to Avignon, the Rhône produces wines that feel instantly relatable to Australian palates: bold yet balanced, sun-drenched but structured. In the south, grenache-led blends like Châteauneuf-du-Pape offer layers of fruit, spice and silky tannins — perfect with chargrilled lamb or slow-cooked vegetables. In the north, syrah reigns supreme: savoury, peppery and elegant. If you love Barossa shiraz, it will feel like its leaner, spicier cousin. Pair it with beef fillet, venison, roast duck or smoky eggplant dishes. Champagne: Beyond the Big Names Champagne might be the classic aperitif, but in France, it's also a food wine. A glass of brut with oysters or tempura? Perfect. A bottle of rosé champagne alongside salmon, duck or a summer berry dessert? Even better. Vintage champagne, made only in exceptional years, pairs beautifully with richer dishes like lobster, scallops or truffle risotto. Extra brut — bone-dry and precise — cuts through fried chicken or chargrilled seafood with ease. For Australians, the closest comparison is Tasmania's boutique sparkling scene, where grower champagnes offer freshness and complexity without the flash. If you normally reach for prosecco or Tassie fizz, try champagne in its many forms — brut for starters, rosé with mains or vintage for something special. The renewed interest in French wine isn't about prestige — it's about connection. Just as Australians have embraced minimal-intervention wines from regions like the Adelaide Hills or Margaret River, they're now discovering that many French producers follow a similar ethos. While big names still dominate shelves, smaller importers are fuelling the renaissance. One such importer is Aptent Gourmet, a Sydney-based team whose portfolio spans the Loire, Burgundy, Champagne and the Rhône — all chosen for their focus on small-scale, sustainable farming and wines that reflect people as much as place. Ready to trial a French drop at your next dinner? Explore our favourite French restaurants in Melbourne and French restaurants in Sydney. Images: Supplied
Organic wines have been gaining more attention in recent years. Biodynamic wines, too. So have vegan wines — and if you're looking for all three in one drop, Lark Hill makes just that in the hills above Canberra, where it boasts one of the highest plantings in the region. Thanks to its lofty location, its shale and clay soil, and the fact that conditions are dry, Lark Hill is all about grapes that can thrive in hardy conditions. Think riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir and grüner veltliner. Opt for the former, and you'll be sipping a tangy tipple that's big on taste but actually has less alcohol content than usual. Lark Hill's onsite cellar door sits within a stone-walled building and offers up $10 tastings for days a week. Restaurant D&K Kitchen is also part of the property, serving up charcuterie and cheese, as well as mains such as pumpkin ravioli, lamb shoulder and duck leg on cassoulet. Top image: The Lark Hill Wine Co.
If someone was to ask you to imagine a dinosaur, and to picture one type only, it's likely that the Tyrannosaurus rex would come to mind. The towering ancient creature is just that fascinating to kids and adults alike, and not solely because it's rarely far from screens. Head to any museum with a T. rex fossil on display and you'll be surrounded by crowds, whether or not they've seen King Kong, a Jurassic Park movie or Night at the Museum. Head to Melbourne Museum from Friday, June 28–Sunday, October 20, 2024 in particular and expect to have plenty of company, then. Thanks to the Victoria the T. rex exhibition, that's when the fossil of Tyrannosaurus rex Victoria will make its Australian debut in the state with the absolute best name for the occasion. The specimen dates back 66 million years, and is one of the world's largest and most complete T. rex skeletons. Showing exclusively at Melbourne Museum, it's also marks the first time that a real T. rex has ever been on display in Victoria. How big is big? Found in South Dakota in 2013, Victoria is comprised of 199 bones, including a skull that weighs 139 kilograms. The fossil reaches 12 metres in length and 3.6 metres in height. And, because the skull is so heavy, it has to be displayed separately as it can't be mounted upon Victoria's body. Victoria the T. rex will also feature interactive elements, such as multi-sensory installations that'll let you experience how the Tyrannosaurus rex saw and smelled, plus dioramas and a section where you can make your own customised 3D T. rex. Welcome to... the cretaceous period, then. The informative side of the showcase will step through recent palaeontological findings, so that you'll get an idea of what Victoria's life was like all that time ago — and also find out what brought about her end. If that's not enough dino action to make you feel like David Attenborough — or his brother Richard in Jurassic Park and The Lost World — Victoria the T. rex will display alongside Triceratops: Fate of the Dinosaurs, which has been open at Melbourne Museum since 2022. The latter permanently features Horridus, the world's most complete Triceratops fossil, and entry to both exhibitions is included in one ticket. At IMAX Melbourne, 45-minute documentary T.REX 3D will also be showing — complete with footage of Horridus — from Friday, June 21. Images: Neon Global.
If you're a movie-loving Australian resident, and you're also constantly dreaming of overseas getaways, odds are you have the country's annual film festival lineup to thank. In March, the French holiday cravings kick in courtesy of the relevant cinema showcase. Then, it's time for Spanish fantasies beamed down from the silver screen. A trip to Germany comes next, followed by a whole heap of Scandinavian vacation cravings — and, when September hits, prepare to start wishing you're in Italy. Yes, it's Italian Film Festival time again, and it's doing the rounds with quite the lineup — including everything from Italian box office hits and Sophia Loren-starring classics through to a documentary about a shoemaker to the stars helmed by Call Me By Your Name and Suspiria's Luca Guadagnino. As the fest always does, it's touring its just-announced program around the country, kicking off in Sydney, then heading to Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Byron Bay, all between Tuesday, September 13–Sunday, October 16. This year's IFF will open with Belli Ciao, which did huge box office business in Italy. It both stars and is co-written by comic duo Pio D'Antini and Amedeo Grieco, who play once-inseparable friends who went their own ways after high school — Pio leaves for Milan, Amedeo stays in their hometown — and now reunite, complete with a north-versus-south culture clash. Among there, highlights include The Hummingbird, an ensemble drama with Nanni Moretti (Three Floors) and Berenice Bejo (Final Cut), which hits IFF fresh from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival; drama Lord of the Ants, about the controversial 1960s trial of intellectual Aldo Braibanti, which screens direct from its Venice Film Festival competition debut; and The King of Laughter, which features Toni Servillo (The Hand of God) as actor and playwright Eduardo Scarpetta. From the documentary selection, two big titles stand out. The aforementioned Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams focuses on Salvatore Ferragamo, while Ennio — The Maestro sees director Giuseppe Tornatore (Cinema Paradiso) pay tribute to legendary Italian composer Ennio Morricone (The Hateful Eight). Elsewhere on the bill, there's rom-com Breaking Up in Rome, homecoming drama Nostalgia, play-to-screen adaptation The Great Silence, the fairground-set Swing Ride and prison The Inner Cage — the latter of which also features Servillo. In fact, he pops up again in Casanova's Return, as an acclaimed Italian director making his last movie about Casanova. More than 25 films grace the full lineup — including blasts from the past, such as closing night's Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni-starring Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. To celebrate the centenary of filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini's birth, three of his iconic movies — all adaptations of literary works — will screen as well, with The Canterbury Tales, Arabian Nights and The Decameron all getting big-screen showings. ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL 2022 DATES: Tuesday, September 13–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Central, Palace Norton St, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Wednesday, September 14–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Thursday, September 15–Wednesday, October 12 — Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema, The Astor and Cinema Nova, Melbourne Wednesday, September 21–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Barracks and Palace James Street, Brisbane Wednesday, September 21–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Thursday, September 22–Sunday, October 16 — Palace Raine Square, Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Windsor Cinema, Perth Friday, September 23–Sunday, October 9 — Palace Byron Bay The 2022 Italian Film Festival tours Australia between Tuesday, September 13–Sunday, October 16. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
Cronulla is best known for its two main surf beaches, but if you venture along the promenade that hugs the picturesque coastline, you'll find a treasure trove of smaller beaches and pools. Shelly Beach Rock Pool is one of them. It's the jewel in the crown of Cronulla's smaller swimming spots and a popular place for picnicking families — not only because of its quiet beauty, but also because it's easily accessible with a pram or wheelchair. Here, there's a ramp that leads straight into the water making it a more inclusive place for swimming. The ocean pool is a great place for beginner-friendly snorkelling, as it is closed off to keep out larger ocean creatures and large waves, but is home to small and friendly varieties of sea life. It is also right next to sprawling grass lawns and a playground so, after you're done swimming, you'll have plenty of space to spread out and enjoy lunch and a lie down in the sunshine. [caption id="attachment_805728" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Stef2230 via Flickr[/caption] Top image: Destination NSW
Fred again.. is currently in Australia, as everyone knows thanks to his Tuesday, February 27 announcement that he was playing Sydney Opera House that night. Missed out? As he mentioned on his Instagram, the British producer and DJ didn't make the trip Down Under just for one show. So, he's gone and announced a three-city tour for the rest of his Aussie stay. Melbourne will next welcome everyone's favourite chaotic electronic musician, for three gigs all at Rod Laver Arena. After that, he's heading to the Gold Coast — at a pop-up location TBC — for a single show. Then, it's back to Sydney, this time to Qudos Bank Arena for another trio of gigs. All seven shows are taking place in March, giving fans more notice this time after 145,000 people attempted to get tickets to Fred again..'s Sydney Opera House set. Also, you've been given more warning about tickets going on sale, too. They'll be available to purchase from Thursday, February 29, with times staggered depending on the city. The tour came out of nowhere, after a post to Fred again..'s Instagram showing him boarding a flight with his buddy and collaborator JOY (ANONYMOUS), teasing that they'd be performing wherever the plane landed. Next, he popped up on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, announcing that ultra last-minute performance at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall. Before now, Fred was last in town for Laneway 2023 alongside Haim, Joji and Phoebe Bridgers, at which time he created pandemonium by performing at a slate of pop-up DJ sets around Australia and New Zealand alongside his festival appearances. At this upcoming shows, he'll be bringing his catalogue of hits, of course. So, if you want to catch 'Delilah (pull me out of this)', 'Marea (we've lost dancing)' and 'Rumble' — and new single 'stayinit' with Lil Yachty and Overmono — this is your latest chance. JOY (ANONYMOUS) will be on supporting duties at all seven shows. Fred again.. Australia 2024 Tour: Monday, March 4–Wednesday, March 6 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Saturday, March 9 — pop-up location TBC on the Gold Coast Tuesday, March 12–Thursday, March 14 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Fred again.. is performing in Australia in March 2024, with tickets on sale on Thursday, February 29 — from 9am AEDT for Melbourne, 10am AEST for the Gold Coast and 1pm AEDT for Sydney. Hit up the tour website for more details. Live images: Maclay Heriot / Daniel Boud, Laneway 2023.
It's been several years since the widely admired Balmain Turkish restaurant Efendy closed its doors, with a 14-year run ending in 2021. Yet with its casual meze and formal Turkish cuisine being such a hit, it's no surprise that fans haven't forgotten the Istanbul-inspired street food flavours. In fact, former customers have long clamoured for Efendy's return, in one form or another. Their prayers were answered recently, with award-winning chef Somer Sivrioğlu hosting a sold-out Efendy pop-up dinner at his veggie-heavy Maydanoz in Sydney CBD. Fortunately, Sivrioğlu offers a second chance on Wednesday, October 1, for those who missed the first date. The experience centres on a curated 'greatest hits' set menu for $78 per person, featuring the restaurant's signature warmth, hospitality and iconic Turkish flavours. Supported by general manager Fatih Kulle and the OG Efendy crew, expect Anatolian generosity and considered technique behind every dish. Just remember, this might be your only chance to taste the restaurant's ali nazik — it took home a Taste of Sydney award in 2013 — featuring tender lamb served over smoky eggplant with a drizzle of yoghurt. Meanwhile, the Pachanga börek offers crispy, golden pastry perfection. Of course, the set menu rounds out with a stellar dessert, with the restaurant's renowned Turkish Mess making a long-awaited return. Expect a wonderfully light meringue and fragrant mastic cream topped with fresh berries. With loads more to feast on throughout the night, this short-run revival might be your only chance to relive Efendy. Gather around the table, order a round of raki and dig in. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
On Bram Stoker's pages, as penned into gothic horror history 128 years ago, Count Dracula travels to the UK. It's fitting, then, that Sydney Theatre Company's cine-theatre take on the all-time classic vampire novel is following the same voyage. While pop culture's most-famous bloodsucker ventured from the Carpathian Mountains to London, Kip Williams' inventive interpretation of Dracula is making the trip from Australia — as the theatre-maker's fellow one-actor horror adaptation The Picture of Dorian Gray similarly did. Also shared by Williams' iterations of Dracula and The Picture of Dorian Gray: a big-name actor with international clout stepping into the production's sole role. Sarah Snook (Memoir of a Snail) did the honours for the director's Oscar Wilde adaptation, won an Olivier Award for it, then moved to Broadway with the show and is now nominated for a Tony. Taking the lead for Sydney Theatre Company's dance with the undead: Cynthia Erivo (Poker Face). [caption id="attachment_1004199" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Seliger[/caption] Erivo's West End stint in Dracula will start on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, playing the Noël Coward Theatre — and if you're wondering whether she'll add to her trophy cabinet for the production, any awards for her efforts here will join the stacked lineup of accolades that she's already collected. For 2016's The Colour Purple, she won a Tony. For that musical's album, she won a Grammy. And for performing from it on America's Today Show, she won an Emmy. This year, Erivo was also an Oscar-nominee thanks to Wicked, joining her two past nominations for Harriet. Dracula marks her return to the stage, premiering in London after Wicked: For Good hits cinemas globally in November 2025. Erivo will portray all 23 characters in Stoker's story. Yes, that means Count Dracula, obviously, but also spans vampire hunter Van Helsing, solicitor Jonathan Harker, his fiancée Mina Murray and her friend Lucy Westenra, among other figures. "Returning to the stage feels like a homecoming, one that I've been craving for a long time. To do so with a story as rich, complex and haunting as Dracula offers a beautiful opportunity to delve into character, into myth and into the heart of what makes us human," said Erivo. "From the moment I was asked, I could not get the role out of my mind. Kip's vision is thrilling, terrifying and deeply resonant, offering a chance to sit with not only the darkness in the world, but also the light we fight to hold onto. It's a rare gift for an actor to inhabit so many voices and perspectives in one piece, and I'm honoured to do it for West End audiences in this extraordinary production. The prospect of doing this show scares me and I know it will be a huge challenge. This show will ask everything of me — and I'm ready to give it." Added Williams: "I am thrilled to be returning to the West End to direct my adaptation of Bram Stoker's Dracula and to collaborate with the extraordinary Cynthia Erivo, as she brings to life the many iconic characters of this much-adored tale." "Our production expands upon Stoker's exploration of the tension between fear and desire, offering a contemporary perspective on the vampire as a monster that lurks not beyond, but within. I am excited to reunite with many of my Dorian Gray collaborators on this project, and it is an immense privilege to have such a singularly gifted artist as Cynthia at the heart of it. I can't wait to share this piece with London audiences, especially in the West End, a place where Bram spent so much of his creative life." Dracula is the third instalment in Williams' trilogy for Sydney Theatre Company, following not only The Picture of Dorian Gray but also The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. In Australia, Zahra Newman portrayed every part in this bite of spectacular theatre. Given how popular its namesake, or versions of him, is in cinemas (see: Nosferatu, Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter and Renfield just in the past two years), don't be surprised if Williams' Dracula also gets picked to make a stage-to-screen leap, as The Picture of Dorian Gray has. Dracula will play the Noël Coward Theatre, 85–88 St Martin's Lane, London, from Wednesday, February 4, 2026 — for more information and tickets, head to the production's website. Dracula images: Zahra Newman and camera operator Lucy Parakhina in Sydney Theatre Company's Dracula, 2024, Daniel Boud ©.
Australia has hurtled its way into the history books, with the successful maiden voyage of its first driverless metro train completed last week. The trial run saw the train cruise along Sydney's new $8.3 billion Metro Northwest railway line in its entirety, a 36-kilometre journey linking Rouse Hill and Chatswood. Once testing has wrapped up, construction is completed and the line is officially opened for business, it's set to be a major win for commuters in the area, with the government promising turn-up-and-go services every four minutes. And this is all expected to happen in the first half of 2019. This part of the Metro Northwest project is in the final stages of completion, with Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance revealing it's expected to be up and running in a matter of months, clocking in at at least $500 million under budget. The Metro Northwest is just one part of the government's overall Sydney Metro project, which will, along with Metro City and Metro Southwest, see a new railway linking Rouse Hill to Chatswood, travelling under the Sydney Harbour to the city, then down to Bankstown. Sydney Metro West will link the city to Parramatta. At this point; however, the final stages of the billion-dollar project — Metro Southwest and West, specifically — are not expected to be completed until 2025. [caption id="attachment_705425" align="alignnone" width="1920"] A map of Sydney Metro Northwest, City and Southwest.[/caption] The line has seen a swag of major rail upgrades, including revamped train stations, new carparks, and platform screen doors installed at all Sydney Metro stations. Further testing will continue over the coming months to prepare the Metro Northwest for its first passenger journeys, which are slated to launch in the second quarter of 2019. You can read more information about the Sydney Metro project at sydneymetro.info.
Holidaymakers love staying in them. TV shows sing their praises. Everyone has wondered what their days would be like if they lived the tiny house life. Expect to explore that train of thought at the National Gallery of Victoria until April 2025, all thanks to the latest temporary addition outside the NGV International on St Kilda Road in Melbourne: Home Truth, the NGV's Architecture Commission for 2024. How big does the average Australian home need to be? How many tiny houses could fit in the space that a standard Aussie abode takes up? These mightn't be the normal questions that anyone tends to ponder when they visit an art gallery, but it's the query that Home Truth wants everyone to contemplate right now. First, you'll see and enter a standard-sized Aussie house. Inside, you'll then find an abode of much smaller size — and you'll notice the difference between the two. Each year, the NGV unveils a site-specific pop-up construction that experiments with design concepts while musing on subjects of public importance. This year's pick is a tiny house — which wouldn't sound out of the ordinary if it wasn't a pint-sized abode within the frame of the average Australian home, and if drawing attention to the contrast wasn't its aim. Created by Melbourne-based architecture and design studio Breathe, Home Truth continues the firm's focus on sustainable architecture that'll endure and has a purpose — and, since Wednesday, November 13, it's getting NGV visitors walking through a house-within-a-house labyrinth. The larger building represents the average 236-square-metre Australian residence. Nestled within it, the smaller-scale home is designed to spark conversations about alternative modes of housing. To get from one to the other, visitors enter via the larger house's garage door, then wander through rooms and hallways. When you reach the tinier home, you'll feel like you've hit the centre of a maze. Attendees will notice two different materials distinguishing each abode, too, with the bigger spot constructed from framing pine and the smaller house from the waste-made and silver-hued saveboard — offering up a comment on how homes are currently built in Australia as well. "Through its clever play on scale and materials, this thought-provoking work of architecture sparks a fascinating conversation about housing and sustainability in this country," explained NGV Director Tony Ellwood when he announced the 2024 Architecture Commission back in September . "Home Truth speculates that overconsumption of space and materials translates into ecological and social consequences — for both us and the planet. But importantly, it offers a provocative vision of a new way of thinking about building — seeing the value of living in spaces that are of smaller scale — a vision that prioritises people and planet," added Ewan McEoin, NGV's Senior Curator, Contemporary Art, Design and Architecture. Home Truth follows 2023's stunning pick (This is) Air, a giant inflatable sphere that breathed, as created by Australian architect Nic Brunsdon with Sky Castle, Airship Orchestra, Cupid's Koi Garden and Lost Dogs' Disco' ENESS. The 14-metre-high piece did indeed expand with air, then release it — so, yes, it inhaled and exhaled all day — to get everyone thinking about humanity's need for and relationship to air, how essential it is, how dependent we all are upon the element, how finite it is and how its quality is being impacted. In the past, NGV's Architecture Commission has also seen a colourful mini Parthenon, a bright pink pool to wade through, a bamboo garden with its own deck and an unforgettable pink carwash pop up, all as part of an initiative that started in 2015. 'Home Truth' by Breathe is on display at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne until Sunday, April 27, 2025 — head to the NGV website for further details. Images: installation view of the 2024 NGV Architecture Commission: Home Truth by Breathe. on display from 13 November 2024 until April 2025 at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Derek Swalwell.
This is a true story: in 2014, Hollywood decided to take on a task that was destined to either go as smoothly as sliding on ice or prove as misguided as having a woodchipper sitting around. Revisiting Fargo was a bold move even in pop culture's remake-, reboot- and reimagining-worshipping times, because why say "you betcha" to trying to make crime-comedy perfection twice? The Coen brothers' 1996 film isn't just any movie. It's a two-time Oscar-winner, BAFTA and Cannes' Best Director pick of its year, and one of the most beloved and original examples of its genre in the last three decades. But in-between credits on Bones, The Unusuals and My Generation, then creating the comic book-inspired Legion, writer, director and producer Noah Hawley started a project he's now synonymous with, and that's still going strong five seasons in. For the TV version of Fargo, the setup mirrors the film. "This is a true story," all iterations of Fargo claim. "At the request of the survivors, the names have been changed," each season of the series goes on, as the movie did before them. "Out of respect for the dead, the rest has been told exactly as it occurred," they also advise. What follows from there is always a twisty tale set in America's midwest, as filled with everyday folks in knotty binds, complicated family ties, crooks both bumbling and determined trying to cash in, and intrepid cops investigating leads that others wouldn't. Hawley's stroke of genius: driving back into Fargo terrain by making an anthology series built upon similar pieces, but always finding new tales about greed, power, murder and snowy landscapes to tell — including the latest, which starts releasing episodes via SBS On Demand in Australia and Neon in New Zealand from Wednesday, November 22. Consider Fargo a Coen brothers remix, too, nodding to its inspiration while existing in the same universe, and also winking at the sibling filmmakers' other features. It's a series where stars from Joel and Ethan's movies have key roles, such as The Man Who Wasn't There's Billy Bob Thornton, A Serious Man's Michael Stuhlbarg and The Big Lebowski's David Thewlis, to mention a few. References to The Big Lebowski's white russians, mugshots that ape Raising Arizona, O Brother Where Art Thou?-esque bluegrass and calling someone "friendo" No Country for Old Men-style also happily pop up. Lines of dialogue, monikers, shots, scenes, character types, plot specifics: from Blood Simple and Barton Fink to Burn After Reading and Hail, Caesar! — and Miller's Crossing, The Hudsucker Proxy, True Grit, Inside Llewyn Davis and The Ballad of Buster Scruggs as well — the links keep coming. Hawley's Fargo adores the Coenverse overall, enthusiastically scouring it for riches like it's the TV-making embodiment of Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter's namesake. That film hailed from Damsel's David Zellner instead, and took cues from the urban legend surrounding the purported Fargo ties to the IRL death of Japanese office worker Takako Konishi; however, wanting the contents of the Coen brothers' brains to become your reality is clearly a common thread. Of course, for most of the fictional figures who've walked through the small-screen Fargo's frames, they'd like anything but caper chaos. Scandia, Minnesota housewife Dot Lyon (Juno Temple, Ted Lasso) is one of them in season five. North Dakota sheriff, preacher and rancher Roy Tillman (Jon Hamm, Good Omens) isn't as averse to a commotion if he's the one causing it. Minnesota deputy Indira Olmstead (Richa Moorjani, Never Have I Ever) and North Dakota state trooper Witt Farr (Lamorne Morris, Woke) just want to get to the bottom of the series' new stint of sometimes-madcap and sometimes-violent mayhem. The events depicted in Fargo season five take place in 2019, after the film's 1987 timing, then season one's 2006 setting, season two's jump back to 1979, season three unfurling in 2010 and season four using 1950 as a backdrop. This is the most current of the franchise's interconnected stories in two ways, with America's recent political climate and corresponding polarisation key to its ten-episode narrative. Indeed, when Dot and her tween daughter Scotty (Sienna King, Under the Banner of Heaven) are introduced in the fifth season's opening scene, it's at a PTA meeting-turned-brawl. After Dot busts out a taser to escape the mob, her presence in the melee ends with an arrest by Olmstead, worry from her car salesman Wayne (David Rysdahl, Oppenheimer), disapproval from his debt collection company CEO mother Lorraine (Jennifer Jason Leigh, Hunters) and the latter's in-house lawyer Danish Graves (Dave Foley, The Kids in the Hall) snapping into action. Similarly a consequence: the dawning realisation by those around her that this stay-at-home mum has secrets. Fans of the movie are in for a treat as Hawley treads in its footsteps more directly than ever, but still cleverly, entertainingly, and while reinforcing the idea that basic human nature sparks tales like this over and over. A home invasion and kidnapping, dispatched criminals doing a job that goes awry, a massive face wound and the line "it's a beautiful day" — uttered here by Olmstead — all feature. As Dot joins Fargo's array of indomitable women, so do Olmstead and Lorraine, offering three stripes on an upstanding, ruthless and caught in-between flag. And the saga's savaging exploration of masculinity? The Trumpian Tillman, who sees the law as a mere guide, is all about boosting his own status, has son Gator (Joe Keery, Stranger Things) following his lead and also sports the Anton Chigurh doppelgänger Ole Munch (Sam Spruell, The Gold) on the payroll, is its primary target. Season five kicks off with a title card in addition to the playful "this is a true story" spiel (it's well-established by now that Fargo trades in anything but, at least where narrative facts are involved). Defining "Minnesota nice" as "an aggressively pleasant demeanour, often forced, in which a person is chipper and self-effacing, no matter how bad things get" gives way to the school riot. In mere minutes, Hawley hammers home the truth that even putting on niceties is a rare occurrence in today's America — and 2019's. The season unpacks this notion, setting its sights on the society, attitudes, leaders and powerbrokers perpetuating self-serving fractures so deep that smiling and pretending to get along isn't possible. Fargo sees the fightback, too, both when class and gender are involved, and especially in the resourceful Dot. She could give MacGyver a run for his money, gets compared to a tiger and, out of necessity, never stops notching up ways to outsmart her foes. Add Temple's lead performance to Fargo's long list of standout portrayals; Frances McDormand received her first of three Best Actress Oscars (before also winning for Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and Nomadland) for the film, after all. Add Hamm to the franchise's can't-look-away villains, swapping his Mad Men charm for the prickliest of confidence. And, add another delight of a run to the show's pile, this time delivering a striking service station siege, the memorable use of The Prodigy's 'Smack My Bitch Up' and multiple references to The Nightmare Before Christmas along the way. Here's another genuinely true story: Fargo keeps proving one of the best film-to-TV adaptations there is. Check out the trailer for Fargo season five below: Fargo season five streams via SBS On Demand in Australia and Neon in New Zealand from Wednesday, November 22. Images: Michelle Faye/FX.
Whether you're the kind of fan who has a lightsaber on your shelf and a Jedi robe in your cupboard, or you prefer simply watching and rewatching every last second of the space-themed science fiction franchise, it has never been easier to indulge your love for Star Wars. We've just seen five new films hit big screens over the latter half of the past decade, The Mandalorian keeps bringing new tales to streaming and, pre-pandemic, an event devoted to the series was never too far away no matter where Down Under you reside. When 2021 rolls around, though, you'll be able to live, breathe and sleep the saga by staying not only in a themed hotel, but onboard a Star Wars spaceship. Yes, in the very near future, in this very galaxy, you can set your sights on Walt Disney World's immersive 360 vacation concept in Orlando. Disney first announced this addition to its growing theme park realm back in 2017, and dropped specific details for all those wannabe Jedis clamouring for a unique holiday back in 2019 — but now it has released a sneak peek of what its new hotel, called Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, will look like. When you're getting some shuteye, expect grey and orange tones combined with white surfaces, and an industrial look and feel as well. Fancy climbing up a ladder to kick back in a space built into an alcove — yes, as seen in oh-so-many space-set flicks? Well, based on the initial mockup imagery, that's in store. To answer the obvious question: no, you won't actually be going into space (although that idea isn't as out-of-this-world as it may sound). You will have a blast pretending that you're headed to a galaxy far, far, away, though. We're happy to report that the resort is taking the immersive part very seriously, with Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser allowing patrons to embark upon a two-day, two-night adventure on the starcruiser Halycon. First step: leave your real life at the door. Upon check-in, guests become a citizen of the galaxy — which means that, every minute of every day of your stay, you're a part of the Star Wars story happening around you. You'll hang out in the Atrium, where crew and passengers gather; operate the Halycon's navigation and defence systems, with plenty of guidance; and learn how to use a lightsaber, because an interactive Star Wars-themed stay wouldn't be complete without wielding a glowing weapon. You'll also sleep in the aforementioned spaceship cabins, drink in the passenger lounge and try to sneak into the crew-only engineering rooms. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOGH5fpqStE&feature=emb_logo Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will form part of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Walt Disney World's new sprawling zone dedicated to the space-set franchise — which opened at the Orlando site, and at Disneyland in California as well, in 2019. For now, the hotel doesn't have an exact 2021 opening date given the current state of the world at the moment; however, you can sign up to register your interest. If you're keen to give it a whirl once it opens (and once international travel gets back to normal, too), you'll have to be committed to the experience. The "every minute of every day" comment may well include sleeping hours — the dark side never sleeps, after all. For more information about Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, which is due to open sometime in 2021, head to Walt Disney World's website. Image: Disney/Lucasfilm via Disney Parks Blog.
2024 is a double Dune year. First, Dune: Part Two brought the science-fiction franchise back to the big screen with help from director Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049), plus stars Timothée Chalamet (Wonka) and Zendaya (Euphoria). Next, television's Dune: Prophecy will arrive before spring is out. A six-part prequel series from HBO, it's set 10,000 years before the birth of Paul Atreides — and, as the latest teaser trailer for the show advises, this is a time when sacrifices must be made. Dune: Prophecy marks this book-to-screen universe's return to the small screen. Over the past four decades, the saga started on the page by Frank Herbert has hit cinemas three times so far, including David Lynch's 1984 film and Villeneuve's 2021 standout Dune: Part One. In the 00s, it also spread sandy across TV via two miniseries. Everything in pop culture has to span both movies and television at the same time these days, however, hence Dune: Prophecy — even though the tale of Paul, aka sci-fi's spiciest man, is set to continue in a third Dune film that doesn't yet have a release date. Come November, including via Binge in Australia, Dune: Prophecy will follow the sect that gives rise to the Bene Gesserit, aka the sisterhood that secretly sways the universe. In the debut sneak peek back in May, the narration explained how the faction formed, and was "assigned to the great houses to help them sift truth from lies" — but also noted that that power comes with a price. The new glimpse doubles down on the costs and chaos. Across both trailers, cue plenty of plotting, lurking in dramatically shadowy spaces, schemes, rituals, battles and marriages. The focus falls on two Harkonnen sisters — part of the same family that includes Stellan Skarsgard's (Andor) Baron Harkonnen, Dave Bautista's (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) Rabban and Austin Butler's (The Bikeriders) Feyd-Rautha in the movies — who are attempting to sure up humanity's future. Dune: Prophecy is inspired by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson's novel Sisterhood of Dune, and features Emily Watson (Small Things Like These), Olivia Williams (The Crown), Travis Fimmel (Boy Swallows Universe), Jodhi May (Renegade Nell), Mark Strong (Tár), Sarah-Sofie Boussnina (The Colony), Josh Heuston (Heartbreak High) and Jessica Barden (You & Me) among the cast. HBO is as keen as most Dune characters are about spice on turning films into TV shows at the moment, with The Batman spinoff The Penguin, IT prequel series Welcome to Derry and a Harry Potter remake as a television show all also on the way. Check out the latest teaser trailer for Dune: Prophecy below: Dune: Prophecy will stream from in November 2024, including via Binge in Australia — we'll update you when an exact release date is announced. Read our reviews of Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, and our interview with cinematographer Greig Fraser.
We've officially entered one of the busiest times of the year when it comes to buying gifts for the fam. Luckily, Black Friday deals make it a lot more affordable, especially if you have a big family. To help you get prepped, we've narrowed down some of the best bargains from Amazon for mums, dads, kids, sisters, brothers and partners. From coffee machines to cookbooks, skincare essentials and wardrobe staples, these savings are tantalizingly good, so get shopping and make the most of the deals while they last. For Mum Often the most self-sacrificing people when it comes to gifts, mum absolutely deserves a treat. From skincare to some newfound inspiration in the kitchen, these Black Friday deals will have you covered. Philips Espresso Machine for $699.00 – 41% off. VT COSMETICS CICA Reedle Shot 100 Serum for $26.40 – 47% off. RecipeTin Eats: Dinner by Nagi Maehashi for $24.00 – 47% off NIVEA SUN UV Face Shine Control Sunscreen for $8.99 – 50% off. Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker for $138.98 – 54% off. COSRX Snail MucinPower Repairing Essence Hydrating Serum for $12.99 – 66% off. For Dad Grab the dads in your life some gifts they will love, like an air fryer for lazy, healthy dinners or even a new watch if you think his outfits are in need of a little bit of extra flair. The Voice Inside by John Farnham for $29.00 – 42% off. Philips 5000 Series Air Fryer for $229.00 – 49% off. Inkbird Digital Meat Thermometer for $18.99 – 51% off. Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results Book for $17.49 – 53% off. Bonds Men's Underwear Cotton Action for $19.99 – 43% off. Tommy Hilfiger Men's Stainless Steel Watch for $139.00 – 58% off. For Your Sister or Girlfriend You really can't go wrong with some new shoes, hair accessories or nice-smelling stuff for the girls in your life. You can thank us later. d'Alba Italian White Truffle Toner for $19.98 – 50% off. Australian Food by Bill Granger for $29.00 – 42% off. Calvin Klein, Carousel Thong 5 Pack for $35.99 – 56% off. Dr. Martens Unisex Myles Brando Leather Slide Sandal for $139.99 – 46% off. Philips 5000 Series Hair Straightener for $64.99 – 40% off. Philosophy Cinnamon Buns Shampoo, Bath And Shower Gel for $13.55 – 60% off. For Your Brother or Boyfriend Whether they're a tech nerd, Lord of the Rings obsessed or are more of the active type, we've narrowed down some of the best low-price gifts to suit any kind of guy. BUZIO Insulated Water Bottle for $29.58 – 44% off. The Hobbit / The Lord of the Rings Box Set for $40.24 – 50% off. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Special Edition Headphones for $335.00 – 46% off. MERRELL Men's Moab 3 GTX Hiking Shoe for $128.99 – 54% off. Calvin Klein One Eau De Toilette for $33.94 – 86% off. UGREEN Magsafe Power Bank for $49.99 – 42% off. For Kids If there's one thing we're certain of, is that it's oh-so-easy to make kids smile with a simple gift that will guarantee endless entertainment, whether it's a book, a board game or a toy you've heard them begging for the past six months. The Adventures of Tintin Complete Boxset for $149.90 – 57% off. Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Portable Speaker for $149.00 – 40% off. PicassoTiles 100 Piece Magnetic Playboards Tiles Set for $45.60 – 49% off. Barbie DreamHouse for $175.00 – 53% off. Blokus for $19.99 – 52% off. Crocs Kids' Bayaband Sandal for $28.04 – 42% off. Images: Supplied. This article contains affiliate links, Concrete Playground may earn a commission when you make a purchase through links on our site.
If you've been walking around Sydney in the last week, you may have noticed the fancy new plaques at most street crossings. But what you probably didn't know is that these signs now make up the most comprehensive network of braille and tactile signs in the world. That's right: the entire world. Thanks to the major effort by Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the signs were officially launched on Monday, July 4, with more than 2100 braille and raised-letter signs installed at pedestrian crossings in the city. The aluminium panels, which denote street names and building numbers, have been placed next to push buttons at crossing areas. These plaques improve signage and accessibility for the blind and vision impaired, and will allow them to navigate the city streets much more easily. A champion for the vision impaired, Moore is aiming to make Sydney more accessible for both locals and tourists. "The signs make it easier and safer for people who are blind or have low vision to use their city — to have the freedom and the independence of movement that most of us can take for granted," she told Concrete Playground. Basically, she rules. Both Vision Australia and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT are giving this act two thumbs way up and were integral in the program launch. "The design and installation arose from extensive consultation with the community and on-site testing with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT and Vision Australia," says Moore. "My sincere thanks to them for their help in this significant step towards an even more open and inclusive city." Making sure Sydney is accessible to the vision impaired is becoming increasingly important by the year — it is estimated that around 100,000 people suffer from non-correctable vision loss in NSW alone, and that number is predicted to increase by more than 20 percent by 2020. We've been truly impressed with Sydney's initiatives of late – like the fact that we're getting our own entrepreneur school and a permanent School of Life. This new braille network is a massive leap forward for the city's planning and an overall ace move. Nice one, Sydney. Image: Clover Moore via Instagram.
Now that winter has arrived, booking a trip to your nearest après-ski scene might seem like the move. Yet if the surf is more your style, the crew at Maple Social Club has an event for you. Taking place across 2–5.30pm on Saturday, June 7, their latest creative and low-pressure community get-together is headed to RAFI URBNSURF. Popping up for one session only, Après-Surf is a golden-hour gathering of snacks, spritzes and socialising at Sydney's man-made surf precinct. At its perch overlooking Sydney Olympic Park, the much-loved restaurant's terrace is prime position for a sunny afternoon with drinks and share plates to match. At an event that's being presented in collaboration with RAFI, you can expect an extended happy hour and cuisine that'll make it easy to make new connections with people from across town. Best of all, Maple Social Club has organised transport for the day, meaning that you can stress less about figuring out the logistics. Just arrive at Central Station at 1.50pm, then board a private bus bound for the URBNSURF precinct. After soaking up the food, drinks and views of surfers carving up the waves, the same bus will whisk you back to Central Station by 5.30pm, leaving plenty of time to make the most of Saturday night. RSVP is essential.
Gather on the Green is the sort of place where one could write a great novel, or at the very least read a great novel. The mismatched leather furniture, dark floorboards, exposed brick and full length windows looking out over Camperdown Oval make for a perfect place to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. Plus, all the food is ethically sourced and sustainably produced from local suppliers, and if that’s not a good excuse to eat two sandwiches for lunch I don’t know what is. The bacon and egg roll ($6.50) is definitely the champion of the breakfast menu. The combo of crispy bacon packed four or five rashers deep, runny egg and the most perfectly spiced tomato relish makes this puppy one of the best B&Es in the inner west. Add in a Mecca coffee ($3.50); you don’t even have to break a $20 (though you may break a meat sweat). For the hungrier individuals, there’s the golden corn fritters with sauteed spinach and homemade relish or poached eggs with field mushrooms and goat’s cheese on toasted sourdough. For the food architects there’s the Build Your Own, where you select ingredients to adorn your toast and fashion your own breakfast delights. It’s kind of like a Choose Your Own Adventure novel but the chapters are bacon and avocado and you don’t die at the end. Gather on the Green is child- and pooch-friendly, and on sunny days you can borrow a picnic blanket and eat your bacon-themed delights across the road in the park whilst watching people play sports. What’s not to love?
If you're a perennial re-watcher of the all-timer Christmas classic Love Actually?, you may or may not already be aware of the musical stage adaptation that's getting ready to hit Australia's east coast. After a swathe of nationwide auditions, the production has announced not one but three casts of performers for shows in NSW, VIC and QLD. They've broken past the typical range of stage veterans and hired everything from impressionists and stand-up comedians to musical veterans and internationally touring artists — the producers call it "pure festive chaos". The Sydney cast includes Ellis Dolan (The Rocky Horror Show 50th Anniversary Tour, School of Rock), Tommy James Green (The Fox and the Hunter, Scratch), Hamish Pickering (Hello, Asteroid), Gracie Rowland (Josephine Wants to Dance), Bash Nelson (Once on This Island) and Brittany Morton (Into the Woods). In Melbourne, audiences will see Mitchell Groves (Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical), Belinda Jenkin (Friends! The Musical Parody), Jeremy Harland (A Zoom Group Project: The Musical), Ian Andrew (Midnight: The Cinderella Musical), Sophie Loughran (50 Shades of Grey — The Musical Parody), and Massimo Zuccara (Opera Australia's West Side Story). Brisbane's production features Dylan Hodge (Legally Blonde The Musical), William Kasper (Rate of Decay), Benjamin Hambley (Godspell), Nicole Kaminski (Urinetown), Stephanie Beza (Chicago), and multi-award-winning Gold Coast actor Ashton Simpson (Romeo & Juliet). "This show is like Christmas dinner after a few too many champagnes — loud, ridiculous, and way too much fun," said Associate Producer Ashley Tickell. The show follows nine quirky couples as they chase love across London, sending up the cult 2003 rom-com with tongue-in-cheek songs such as "He's The Prime Minister of Rom Coms" and "Keira Knightley Actually". Written by the creators of Friends! The Musical Parody, the production promises a night of high-energy laughs for audiences aged 15 and up. Love Actually? The Musical Parody first premiered in Australia in 2024 to rave reviews, hailed as "fabulously hilarious and laugh out loud entertainment" (Musicals Reviewed) and "a surefire way to get into the festive spirit" (Toorak Times). With its cheeky humour, catchy songs, and irreverent take on one of the most beloved Christmas films of all time, the show promises to be the ultimate untraditional holiday tradition. As Tickell puts it: "Whether you love Love Actually, love to hate it, or have never even seen it, you will actually love this musical." 'Love Actually? The Musical Parody' will play at Sydney's Darling Quarter Theatre from November 27 to December 23, followed by Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre from December 5–23 and Brisbane Showgrounds from December 11-21. Tickets start at $69 via loveactuallymusicalparody.com.
Sydney's schwanky rooftop pool bar, Ivy Pool Club, has had a big ol' revamp just in time for the warmer months. Unveiling a brand new look, Ivy's moving the space from LA-inspired glamour to Italian Riveria-style trimmings. Ivy Pool Club is now prepped for a whole new season of poolside lounging, overt splurging and a whole bunch of Italian-themed festivities.
There's another bakery-slash-cafe in town and it's causing quite the predicament for the bread and pastry fans amongst us. Not only are we fortunate enough to be blessed with Bourke Street Bakery, Sonoma, Luxe, and Iggy's in Sydney, but now Brickfields has arrived on the scene with some pretty awesome loaves of bread. Brickfields is the brainchild of Simon Cancio (ex Luxe) and Paul Geshos (Mecca Coffee) so you can expect a winning bread/coffee combo. With a simple fit-out of timber furniture, the high ceilings and big windows help make the space light and airy. Tiled walls are awash with shelves of golden, crusty bread, and jars of the housemade pickles. And behind the front counter, peeking through the big archway, we can catch a glimpse of the dough baking heroes pulling out hot loaves. The menu on the blackboard is short, thankfully, and not overwhelmingly replete with the usual cafe suspects. Sweet tooths will be pleased to see the glass counter with tempting pastries and baked goods on show. Slices of jam crostata ($4.50) look delish, and the mini Persian love cakes ($4) are to die for; these babies are incredibly moist and flavoursome. Not to mention the croissants ($3). After you've had one, there will be no second-guessing as to why they sell out by lunchtime. And for a dose of liquid sweetness? The "dranks" menu includes homemade "lebonade" ($4) or peachy soda ($4). Both are served in half-litre carafes. For something more substantial, the breakfast plate with a boiled egg and fried eggplant tahini comes with the spicy zhoug ($12) and the quinoa plate is blended with sunflower seeds, pecans, currants, and topped with a dollop of yogurt and honey ($10.50) — bursting with goodness would be the phrase. But if it's bread you're here for, then don't look past the simple fig and walnut toast ($5 for toast or loaf); reassuringly dense and packed with fresh figs, this stuff's certainly not your average raisin toast. The beef brisket sandwich ($13) comes with radish, anchovy mayo, chilli, and beef that has been slow roasted for six hours. Despite being nestled onto busy Cleveland Street, Brickfields is refreshingly peaceful. The staff are friendly and decidedly aware of how good their products are. Be warned though, Brickfields' sourdough will have you scoffing at Tip Top forever more. Appears in: The Best Bakeries in Sydney for 2023
Earlier this year, The Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst unveiled the first part of a huge full-venue transformation that it was undergoing. Stage one was The Strand Bistro, a lavish French restaurant that's taken over the ground floor of the building – complete with a luxurious French-inspired fit-out, creamy garlic mussels and leek tarts. At the time, it was promised it wouldn't be the last piece of The Strand puzzle, with a luxe hotel accommodation and a breezy rooftop bar on the way – both of which have now arrived. Up top, you'll find a sun-soaked rooftop courtyard above William Street boasting vibrant colours and a summer-ready drinks list. The house speciality? A dirty martini. "We've designed the rooftop to provide an unexpected and charming escape amongst the anonymity of William Street, with a deliberate strong contrast to the aesthetic experienced through the brooding texture and materials of the hotel rooms and Bistro below," says Public Hospitality and Public Design Studio's Tom de Plater who is overseeing the makeover alongside cult denim brand Ksubi's George Gorrow. There are also plenty of great bar snacks to enjoy, including the aforementioned tarts, prawn cocktails, corn gruyere croquettes and the French Kiss which combines Belvedere vodka with Oscietra caviar. Each weekend, the rooftop will host DJ sets and live entertainment until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and until 10pm on Sundays. Anyone looking to kick on until the early hours of the morning can then head down to the newly refurbished Club 77, just a few doors down. As for the hotel, there are 17 freshly renovated boutique suites. Starting from $199 per night, the rooms range from cosy one-person accom through to deluxe residential-style rooms. The stays are designed to appeal to both travellers looking for an inner-city Sydney oasis and locals wanting a staycation within walking distance of Surry Hills, Potts Point, and the CBD. "The Strand has been designed with the intimacy and personal service of a boutique hotel, creating a community hub of like-minded people, that makes you want to return again and again," says Gorrow. Bookings for The Strand Rooftop and The Strand Hotel, as well as the previously opened The Strand Bistro are all open now via the venue's website. And, if you want to add a bit of Parisian style to your next event, the bistro and rooftop bar are both available for event bookings. The Strand Hotel is located at 99 William Street, Darlinghurst. The bistro is open 6am–midnight Sunday–Thursday and 6am–3am Friday–Saturday, while the rooftop is open midday–midnight Wednesday–Sunday.
Two gigantic Australian billboards were hijacked this week, now sporting seriously gnarly tatts. Located in Sydney's George Street and Melbourne's St Kilda Junction, the 16m x 6m billboards have been emblazoned with giant tattooed lions by longtime team-up Aussie artists The Yok and Sheryo in collaboration with LYNX. The two artists were invited to use their own unique styles and expression to transform the men's brand's latest outdoor campaign. Marking phase one of LYNX's brand new 'Expression Series', the billboards were completed over four days; with a limited run of t-shirts and posters available through Facebook. This isn't the first time the pair have worked together; The Yok and Sheryo have exhibited and painted their fantastical creatures everywhere from Mexico to NY, Atlanta, LA, Miami, Africa, Belgium, London, Europe, Seoul, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Australia and Cambodia. So why the massive lions? The Yok has seen his fair share of expression-fuelling travel, moving to Africa from Australia and finding an addictive freshness in his newfound environment (lions included). "I moved to Kenya when I was 25 and I lived there for a year and a half; I think that had a real dramatic effect, it was a really rewarding experience" says The Yok in the behind-the-scenes video. "I really value that feeling, so maybe I'm always trying to chase that feeling again. It's kind of like being a kid and everything's new. "I remember when I saw my first lion in Kenya. Such an amazing animal to see close up; they're just so powerful-looking. I can't really describe what it is to look at a lion in the face, but they're an amazing creature." https://youtube.com/watch?v=zNQyWPUqdF0 LYNX aren't stopping at two gigantic billboards; the next phase of the 'Expressions Series' will see typographer Luca Ionescu and a photographer collaborate on a mystery project to be announced later in the year. LYNX's project aims to help Australian guys express themselves authentically, supporting creators who stay true to their vision but might not always have the opportunity to do so. Check out LYNX's 'Expression Series' over here and stay tuned for the next project announcement later this year.
The nights are longer, the temperature is rising, and people just seem to be more joyous — it must be summer. While December is mainly focused on a certain event on the 25th, it lasts far beyond that. Parramatta comes into its own in summer, with something to do all season long. What's more, plenty of these events are family-friendly occasions that won't break the bank. Parramatta has exactly what you need this summer, starting with these seven standout selections. NEW YEAR'S EVE AT PARRAMATTA PARK Proving there's more to NYE than the display on the Harbour Bridge, Parramatta Park is giving you the opportunity to see off 2023 with a bang. The family-friendly event on Sunday, December 31, is free to attend and includes food trucks, activities and a musical lineup headlined by ARIA Award-winning group Sneaky Sound System. So, you can get a gozleme and a beer, challenge the family to garden games, see some great music and, to top it all off, stare in wonder at a killer fireworks display at 9pm. You can also bring your own food and drinks, esky and blankets, so make a real evening of it and enjoy the last day of the year without breaking the bank. SYDNEY FESTIVAL AT RIVERSIDE THEATRE Now a summer institution, Sydney Festival always kickstarts the new year with various events throughout the city. Parramatta's Riverside Theatres has a great range of shows in January, which are well worth your time. There's something for everybody, from a multicultural comedy gala to a night of Palestinian memories or an interactive Dinosaur World experience. The highlight of the program is Bananaland, a musical comedy about a failing punk band who accidentally become the next Wiggles due to a viral hit. Scored by Aussie pop royalty Kate Miller-Heidke and directed by Simon Phillips of Muriel's Wedding The Musical fame, Bananaland will surely be the hottest ticket in town. SYDNEY SYMPHONY UNDER THE STARS Any opportunity to see the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is special. This free concert in Parramatta Park showcases a range of works, including classical favourites, familiar film scores and Australian originals. On Saturday, January 20, you'll be able to hear Strauss' The Blue Danube and pieces from Apollo 13 and ET, as well as the kind of thing you wouldn't ordinarily associate with a famed orchestra. Aunty Delmae Barton and Véronique Serret are joined by didgeridoo maestro William Barton, and, on top of that, Anoushka Shankar shows off her sitar pedigree (her father is sitar genius and Beatles collaborator, Ravi Shankar). With all this talent on show, it's probably worth reiterating that this concert is free. Gratis. Zero dollars. You've no excuse not to go down there. BALLOON GLOW On Thursday, January 25, head to Parramatta Park's Cattle Paddock for the inaugural Balloon Glow event: a hot-air balloon and light display timed to music. The balloons and lights might be the headline act, but it's a free, community-oriented evening with live music, activities and food trucks to entertain and feed you and the whole family. With something different from your standard local fireworks display, Balloon Glow will spread awe and glee to young and old alike. JAMMIN FESTIVAL It's long established that summer is where it's at for music festivals. The fact that Europe and the US start the year with freezing temperatures means that some of the biggest international acts get the privilege of coming Down Under. Jammin Festival, taking place on the first weekend of February in Parramatta Park, is Australia's premier reggae festival. Next year's headline acts are true heavy hitters: Shaggy and Sean Paul, two of the biggest reggae and dancehall stars of the 21st century, will be appearing alongside legendary reggae mainstays UB40 and ferocious British MC Stefflon Don. There's also a slew of fantastic Australian and Polynesian artists to keep you entertained, meaning the good vibes will flow all weekend. LUNAR NEW YEAR Say goodbye to the Year of the Rabbit and hello to the Year of the Dragon on Saturday, February 10 in Parramatta. Both Parramatta Square and Centenary Square will host festivities and a range of street food stalls, not to mention dancing, lanterns, workshops and performances. You can also catch a dragon art installation by Amigo & Amigo in Parramatta Square for the first half of February. The incredible event will showcase the diversity and inclusion of the local community while celebrating Asian cuisine and culture. There are few better places for you and your family to ring in the Lunar New Year in the state capital. SOULED OUT FEST After a successful soft launch in 2023, Australia's only festival dedicated to modern R&B is going supernova in 2024. Before hitting Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Auckland and Perth, it all kicks off in Parramatta Park. Massive international acts including Summer Walker, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Bryson Tiller, Majid Jordan and Tinashe, will be in attendance, and emerging acts showcasing the full spectrum of what R&B means in the 2020s. It's rare to have the chance to see so many of one genre's global big hitters in one place, so be an early adopter and jump on the Souled Out train before everyone is across it in 2025. And that's just summer in Parramatta. Throughout the year, the River City has plenty on to keep you entertained, whether it's events highlighting the local community or huge sporting matches at CommBank Stadium and the ever-popular Parramatta Lanes, which offers food, music, arts and entertainment. Discover other events around Parramatta at the website.
For a small business that set out thirty years ago to create a simple after-dinner mint for restaurants and cafes, this family-run establishment has certainly flourished. Somewhat of an institution around these parts, Fardoulis is a go-to for any gifting occasion. Whether you need a thank you gift, an 'I'm sorry' present or a birthday box for that person in your life who already has everything, Fardoulis has you covered. Take your pick of delectable handmade treats for your special someone — from a simple bag of the bunny-shaped caramel truffles to a very OTT hamper — and make sure you pick up a couple of things for yourself while you're at it. The team have spent the last three decades experimenting with unique flavours and recipes, so you can guarantee there's something for every chocolate lover's palate. The best part about the store is that there are always free samples. A perfect reason to make a visit, if you ask us.
The world's most-famous enigmatic smile is beaming down on Australia in 2024, all thanks to the team at Grande Experiences. The Melbourne-based company is the mastermind behind the immersive walkthrough art experiences that've been sweeping the country, both touring them and opening the nation's first permanent digital-only art gallery The Lume — and Leonardo da Vinci and the Mona Lisa are its latest point of focus. The Lume in the Victorian capital is all-in on the artist and inventor. The site's major 2024 exhibition is Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius, with the gallery is calling its "most ambitious, immersive and breathtaking yet". That's quite the claim for a collection that follows a van Gogh celebration, a focus on Monet and his contemporaries and the current First Nations-centric Connection. Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius displays to art lovers from Saturday, March 16. The Last Supper also enjoys the spotlight in a big way, because Grande Experiences' whole setup is making iconic, important and stunning works larger than life, surrounding attendees like never before. The Mona Lisa links in with the segment of the exhibition that's all about French optical engineer Pascal Cotte, who invented a multispectral camera and has peeled back the artwork's layers using his research. So, get excited about Mona Lisa Revealed, which will include an exact 360-degree replica — the only one in the world — as created thanks to Cotte's 240,000,000-pixel multispectral camera. That said, Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius isn't just about its namesake's well-known works, with the 3000-square-metre multi-sensory gallery also exploring his inspirations and contemporaries. So, you can also scope out Botticelli's The Birth of Venus, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and works by Caravaggio. Melbourne is home to an experience that steps through da Vinci's journey, too, including Florence's streets, Venice's canals and Milan — as brought to life via sight, sound, scent, touch and taste. Also among Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius' highlights: 50 of da Vinci's "machine inventions", which are on loan the Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Rome. Alongside the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper and his anatomical drawings — and more — da Vinci is well-known for his flying machine concepts, with his 15th-century vision of human flight set to score The Lume's attention. This part of the exhibition heroes recreations made in Italy from the artist and inventor's sketches, and also using the materials and techniques he would've at the time. Updated Friday, October 25, 2024.
While seltzers are all the rage right now, there's a new boozy beverage coming for the crown of hottest drink on the market: alcoholic kombucha. One local brand crafting the fermented favourite has welcomed the warmer weather by opening a hard kombucha tasting room — Sydney's first. Local Manly brand Bower is giving you the chance to sample its summer-ready bevs at its limited-time tasting room pop-up, open six days a week at 5 Marine Parade. You have until Sunday, December 10 to head in to chat with the Bower crew about the drinks and taste-test the range. The hard kombucha is double fermented, organic, gluten-free and comes in two flavours: Summer Fling (watermelon and mint) or Sunset Passion (passionfruit and raspberry). If you're already sold, you can purchase them from the Bower website — but if you want a tester first, head to the Northern Beaches while the tasting room is open.
The shock of unkempt hair, the Irish brogue, the misanthropic attitude: there's no mistaking Dylan Moran for anyone else. It was true in beloved British sitcom Black Books, when his on-screen alter ego abhorred mornings, ate coasters and claimed that his oven could cook anything (even belts). And it's definitely true of the comedian's acerbically hilarious live shows. Moran is no stranger to Australia, and last headed our way in 2019. Whether you've guffawed at his bleak wit live or you've always wanted to, you'll be able to see him on Saturday, May 8, too — thanks to a streamed version of his Brisbane show from his last visit. Expect the kind of deadpan gags, wine-soaked insights and blisteringly sharp one-liners that've kept him in the spotlight since 1996, when he became the youngest-ever winner of the Edinburgh Fringe's Perrier Award. Dr Cosmos once again features Moran's grumpily lyrical musings on love, politics, misery and the everyday absurdities of life, which you can watch for $18 from your couch. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMfRpM5PJRw
UPDATE, June 10, 2022: Hustlers is available to stream via Stan, Netflix, Google Play, YouTube Movies, Prime Video and iTunes. Kudos to the bright minds behind Hustlers' many needle drops. When the film's trailer hit, it used Cardi B's 'Money' as its soundtrack — not only nodding to the rapper's co-starring status, but capturing the movie's materialistic vibe with its sultry lyrics about diamonds, jets and oh-so-much cash. In the picture itself, Janet Jackson's 'Control' initially does a similar job, opening the feature with a statement that really couldn't sum up its characters better. While they're literally rolling around in moolah until the global financial crisis hits, Hustlers' resourceful strippers are always at the mercy of their banker clientele. Forced to get creative when times get tough, they turn the tables on the guys usually throwing notes their way, hatching quite the entrepreneurial scheme to reclaim their bodies, lives and independence. The pesky little fact that, by drugging well-off men, running up huge charges on their credit cards and pocketing the profits, these gals are as shady as their Wall Street marks — well, Hustlers has a music cue for that also. It might seem obvious to introduce Jennifer Lopez's Ramona, the mastermind of the group, to the sounds of Fiona Apple's 'Criminal'; however, her eye-catching entrance shows that her allure is as seductive as the song's beat. Elsewhere, the film lets its characters scream in delight to Britney's 'Gimme More' and serenade Usher (as himself) to his own 'Love in the Club'. It uses Lorde's 'Royals' to telling effect, too. These are knowing, savvy music choices in a picture that's always coolly calculating. To truly unpack this real-life tale of bling-coveting erotic dancers scamming the financiers who just fleeced a nation, it needs to be. Experienced at disrobing on the job, but nervous when she moves to a new New York strip joint in 2007, Dorothy (Crazy Rich Asians' Constance Wu) hardly follows the film's lead — at first. Known as Destiny on stage, she's barely getting by until she becomes as bewitched by Ramona as all the guys around her. Standing out among the other dancers (including not just Cardi B, but Lizzo), their double-act lights plenty of clients' fires and keeps the duo flush with cash. Then, post-GFC, the dollar bills stop raining from the sky. Fast forward to 2014, and Dorothy is relaying the details to Elizabeth (Julia Stiles), who's writing about the strippers' escapades. More than just a framing device, the pair's chats have a basis in actual events, with writer/director Lorene Scafaria (The Meddler) adapting Hustlers from a 2015 New York magazine article. It's not the heady, dancing heyday that Elizabeth is most interested in, however, and nor is the piece that Hustlers is inspired by. Rather, it's the hijinks that follow when Ramona concocts her pilfering plan. Aided by two other pals (Keke Palmer and Lili Reinhart), Dorothy and Ramona start living their wildest dreams — enjoying a level of wealth, excess, comfort, security and, yes, control that they've never experienced before. "I kept thinking there was some magic number," Dorothy notes as she tries to explain what the women got up to, how and why, although the film does a perceptive job of making that plain beyond her words. Playing out like a gender-flipped Magic Mike meets The Wolf of Wall Street, the movie doesn't turn its characters into heroes by any means. But, it saves its deepest savagery for another target: the money-hungry American dream that today's brand of corporation-favouring capitalism gleefully encourages and endorses. It's a delicate balancing act, thoughtfully interrogating Dorothy and company's story without glorifying their actions — and it's one that Hustlers nails. Like many a great heist and gangster flick before it, this upbeat crime drama eschews the simplicity of black-and-white morality. Aptly, given that it's constantly bathed in neon-lit hues, it avoids mere shades of grey, too. Here, all that glitters seems gold and silver, but it's really laden with chrome and encrusted with diamantes. Scafaria styles her whole picture in the same fashion, with its shining frames welcoming viewers in, then exposing the stark, seedy reality. The twist that makes Hustlers exceptionally astute as well as engaging and entertaining? While Dorothy and Ramona desperately want to gain control, they're still firmly steeped in a flimsy, male-defined world. Accordingly, their rise to the top was always going to prove fleeting and superficial — so the bonds they make and break along the way shape their story more than the cash, jewels and designer clothes. Hustlers never shies away from this fundamental truth, or from a warts-and-all depiction of its wily protagonists as well. It can't, and it's all the better for it. Of course, if Wu and the especially fantastic Lopez didn't ground this larger-than-life true story in fleshed-out characters, it'd all mean next to nothing. Thankfully, from its spicy narrative to its potent themes to its stellar performances, Hustlers both works the pole and packs an almighty punch.
The Central Coast's dining options seem to get better with every visit. More and more Sydney hospitality folk are upping sticks from the city to open up all-day diners or cosy taverns that focus on local produce and excellent service. And the new arrivals only add to an already thriving food and drink scene bolstered by loyal locals and visitors seeking out the best of the area. As there are new openings to celebrate, and a couple of fine dining favourites that you shouldn't pass up, we've put together this list of ten Central Coast restaurants, cafes and bars that we think are worth the hype. Read on to find flame-grilled flank steaks, paddock-to-plate high tea and finger-licking good pizza. And when you've dined your way around these, check out more acclaimed eateries in our Weekender's Guide. While regional holidays within NSW are now allowed, some of the places mentioned below may be operating differently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please check websites before making any plans.
When Mov'In Bed first launched, it helped solve a problem. Can't choose between hitting up an outdoor cinema or watching a film in bed? Here, you don't have to. Up and running since mid-January, Mov'In Bed's new outdoor beach cinema stacks on another layer to that equation like it's building a sandcastle. Can't pick between flicks under the stars, going to the beach or being cosy? Again, this is the solution. Because getting folks seeing films on a mattress — pillows, blankets and all — beneath the evening sky wasn't enough (or on a boat in Darling Harbour, or a car on Entertainment Quarter's rooftop), Mov'In Bed Outdoor Cinema's beach stint is taking to the sand at Harbour Park in Barangaroo until Sunday, April 14, 2024. And all those white grains that'll be beneath your feet? There's a huge 280 tonnes of the stuff, which the pop-up's 150 queen-sized beds sit atop. If you haven't had the chance to enjoy the experience, which features a 15-metre 4K screen, as yet, the pop-up outdoor picture palace has just revealed what's showing on its February and March lineup. The last month of summer kicks off with Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, then also boasts Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, John Wick: Chapter 4, Ferrari, Next Goal Wins, Wonka and The Iron Claw. Come autumn, All of Us Strangers, The Holdovers, Past Lives and Studio Ghibli's The Boy and the Heron also feature. Where's the best place to see Sydney-shot Sydney Sweeney-starring rom-com Anyone But You? In Sydney near the water — which plays more than a small part in the movie — obviously. With the 2024 Academy Award nominations freshly announced, Mov'In Bed Outdoor Cinema at Barangaroo is also showing Killers of the Flower Moon again in the coming months. And on Oscars day itself, it'll screen whatever wins Best Picture (so, likely Oppenheimer). The night will also include champagne to celebrate, and attendees are encouraged to wear red carpet-ready outfits. Before marking Hollywood's night of nights, Mov'In will get into the mid-February spirit with the Mean Girls musical for Galentine's Day, The Notebook on Valentine's Day and Crazy Stupid Love on Singles Awareness Day (aka Thursday, February 15). Other retro titles across the newly unveiled flicks span go-tos such as Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Dirty Dancing, Notting Hill, When Harry Met Sally and Clueless. And, although it's only a couple of years old, Top Gun: Maverick has already become an outdoor cinema staple. Whatever you select to see, expect company, with January's sessions selling out. Expect DJ-spun tunes, focusing on songs from film soundtracks, upon arrival as well. No one wandering by will hear a thing once the movie starts playing, however, because Mov'In uses noise-cancelling headphones for every attendee. Gates open at 6pm, with movies playing from 8.30pm. And price-wise, tickets will range from $12–75 per person. Mov'In Bed Outdoor Cinema's beach stint runs until Sunday, April 14, 2024 at Harbour Park, Barangaroo. For further details or to book, head to the Mov'In Bed Outdoor Cinema website.
The black parade is coming back to Sydney — finally. After their attempt to head to our shores in 2020 was thwarted due to the pandemic, and then their rescheduled 2022 dates as well, the reunited My Chemical Romance is making 2023 the year they hit the Harbour City. The dates to get excited about: Sunday, March 19–Monday, March 20. The third time is set to prove the charm for Gerard Way and co, and for music lovers eager to grab their eyeliner, don every black piece of clothing in their wardrobe, relive their angsty emo teenage years and let out three cheers. The new tour will mark more than a decade since MCR last came to Australia for the 2012 Big Day Out — and comes after the US group went their separate ways in 2013, then reformed in 2019. Fans will be pleased to know that MCR are headlining their own shows on this tour, too, rather than leading a festival bill as they were slated to do in 2020. And, they're playing two Sydney gigs — both at Qudos Bank Arena. Back in late 2019, when MCR announced that they were literally getting the band back together, they sold out their first reunion gig in Los Angeles quick smart — and tickets to their Australian gigs have already proven mighty popular. So, expect to have ample company lapping up 'I'm Not Okay', 'Helena', 'Teenagers', 'I Don't Love You', 'The Foundations of Decay' and more. Top image: My Chemical Romance performing by NBSTwo via Flickr.
Bradfield, Sydney's third city centre, is currently being built around the new Western Sydney airport. But construction in Parramatta — Sydney's second city centre — definitely hasn't slowed. High-rise buildings continue to go up, the Powerhouse Museum has been given the official go-ahead, and now work has begun on a new multimillion-dollar aquatic and leisure centre. The 40,000-square-metre community facility is currently being built within the expansive surrounds of Parramatta Park in the heart of the ever-growing Western Sydney hub. Predicted to cost $88.6 million, the facility will include three pools: a ten-lane 50-metre outdoor pool, a 25-metre indoor pool and an indoor learn-to-swim pool. It will also feature spa and sauna facilities, an indoor water playground, a cafe and a fitness centre — plus a multipurpose community rooms and a 200-space carpark. Testing on the Parramatta site has already begun as part of the construction process, with the facility expected to be completed by early 2023. And, sustainability is big a focus. Five hundred native trees will be planted in the area surrounding the centre, and solar panels will also be installed on sections of the centre's roof. The solar panels will generate approximately 142,000 kilowatts of power annually. The project is partially funded by the NSW's Government's Restart NSW Fund. It'll provide an initial $38.5 million investment in building the centre, plus a subsequent $11.6 million to help future-proof the facility as Parramatta continues to grow. The community facility is the latest major aquatic development around Sydney, with Gunyama Aquatic and Recreation Centre, a $106 million aquatic and leisure centre opening in Green Square back in February — and the iconic North Sydney Pool currently closed for a $63 million upgrade. For more information on Parramatta Park's new aquatic and leisure centre, head to the City of Parramatta website
If you still haven't visited the Rose Seidler House, today's the day. One of the country's most-renowned modernist homes, this striking little house is more than worth a day-trip. Located 30 kilometres north of the city, the house was designed by Harry Seidler, Sydney's most famous architect, in 1950. Today, it's part of Sydney Living Museums and has been maintained in all of its 1950s glory with its original colour scheme and furniture by top post-war designers like Charles Eames. Request a tour to gain deeper insight into the vibrant history of this modernist gem. Image: Phyllis Wong, Sydney Living Museums.
How much green will be seen at 2025's Laneway Festival? With Charli XCX headlining, expect the Brat hue to be everywhere. After all of the talk talk of announcing its dates and venues, then splashing around everyone's current favourite slime colour, St Jerome's Laneway Festival has confirmed that Charlotte Emma Aitchison is indeed leading its 2025 lineup. Given the fest's February timing — kicking off in Auckland on Thursday, February 6, then hitting Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth by Sunday, February 16 — it's going to be Brat summer Down Under. It's set to be a Beabadoobee-, Clairo-, Barry Can't Swim- and Remi Wolf-soundtracked summer as well, with the quartet also among the big names on Laneway's bill. Charlie XCX was last in Australia in 2023 for Sydney WorldPride and For the Love, and before that in 2020 at Laneway. If you're keen to see the 'Guess', '360', 'Apple', 'Speed Drive', '1999', 'Doing It' and 'Boom Clap' talent this time, you'll need a Laneway ticket, as she's playing exclusively at the fest. In 2025, she'll have company from BICEP doing their CHROMA AV DJ set, Olivia Dean, Eyedress and Skegss, too, alongside STÜM, RONA, Hamdi, Joey Valence & Brae, 2hollis, Fcukers, Ninajirachi, Julie, and Girl and Girl. The event started by Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio in the mid-00s will head to Western Springs in Auckland, then hop over the ditch to Brisbane Showgrounds, Sydney Showground, Melbourne's Flemington Park, Bonython Park in Adelaide and Wellington Square in Perth. Laneway joins the list of festivals locking in their comebacks after a tough year of cancellations across the live music scene. Also returning: Golden Plains, Bluesfest (for the last time), Wildlands, Good Things, Lost Paradise, Beyond The Valley and Meredith. Laneway Festival 2025 Lineup Charli XCX Beabadoobee Clairo Barry Can't Swim BICEP present CHROMA (AV DJ set) Remi Wolf Olivia Dean Eyedress Skegss STÜM RONA Hamdi Joey Valence & Brae 2hollis Fcukers Ninajirachi Julie Girl and Girl + Triple J unearthed winners Laneway Festival 2025 Dates and Venues Thursday, February 6 – Western Springs, Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau Saturday, February 8 — Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane / Turrbal Targun Sunday, February 9 — Sydney Showground, Sydney / Burramattagal Land & Wangal Land Friday, February 14 — Flemington Park, Melbourne / Wurundjeri Biik Saturday, February 15 — Bonython Park, Adelaide / Kaurna Yerta Sunday, February 16 — Wellington Square, Perth / Whadjuk Boodjar St Jerome's Laneway Festival is touring Australia and New Zealand in February 2025. Head to the festival's website for further details, and to register for ticket pre sales — which kick off at 10am local time on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 — or get tickets in general sales from 10am local time on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. Top Charli XCX image: Harley Weir. Laneway images: Charlie Hardy / Daniel Boud / Maclay Heriot / Cedric Tang.
One month. Two countries. 32 teams. A single, shining, much-coveted, hard-contested trophy. They're the basic numbers behind the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, which is being played across Australia and New Zealand from mid-July to mid-August. Football fans — and no, we don't mean AFL, NRL, rugby union or gridiron devotees — this is your time to shine. Here are a few other pivotal figures: two nights, one hotel suite, and you and three mates. And some more: one Aussie soccer squad, a world-first place to stay and one pivotal match. Throw in one football star, too, and you have everything you need for the ultimate Matildas-themed staycation (for Sydneysiders) or vacation (if you hail from beyond the Harbour City). To celebrate the FIFA Women's World Cup heading Down Under, The Star Grand Hotel Sydney is giving its two-storey penthouse a Matildas-worshipping makeover for a couple of nights, and just for a few guests. As part of a partnership with Destination NSW, it's decking out the place in green and gold — what else? — for you and a a trio of your soccer-loving besties to call home from Wednesday, July 19–Friday, July 21. The timing coincides with Australia playing the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, July 20, with tickets and transfers to the game included in your stay. The one big catch: you'll need to win this football fanatic's dream of a stay in a game of skill, by explaining why Sydney is the best place on the planet to see Australia's women's team compete for the cup, with entries open until 9pm AEST on Wednesday, July 12. If you're the lucky recipient, you'll score that curated suite that pays homage to Sam Kerr and her teammates, which comes decked out with a four-metre-long Matildas scarf, various football ornaments, books about the team's history, a staircase adorned with football quotes, and framed photos of past and present Matildas legends. Autographed jerseys also feature, and international trophies — yes, real ones — already won by the squad, such as the AFC Women's Asian Cup, Cup of Nations and the Tournament of Nations. And, there's a foosball table for you and your crew to get playing yourself. Michelle Heyman will also pop up to meet and greet you, and chat about football, the FIFA Women's World Cup and a career that spanned becoming the A-League Women's top goal scorer. "This is the ultimate experience for any football fan! Not only do you get to stay in this incredible football suite, you get to fully immerse yourself in the Matildas hype ahead of their first match on home soil. You even get tickets to the Matildas soldout opening game, so overall it's a money can't buy experience and an incredible way to get behind the Matildas and celebrate women's sport here in Sydney," said Heyman. You'll also take home a heap of Matildas merchandise, and get a pre-game party playlist curated by Nina Las Vegas. Live outside of Sydney? Domestic flights are included, too, and you might be extra keen on the harbour and Harbour Bridge views from the penthouse. Now that's how you kick off the World Cup in style — and cheer on the Matildas to hopefully make football history. Entries to stay at the Matildas Fan Suite are open until 9pm AEST on Wednesday, July 12, for a two-night stay from Wednesday, July 19–Friday, July 21 — head to The Star Grand Hotel website for further details. The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 runs from Thursday, July 20–Sunday, August 20 across Australia and New Zealand, with tickets available from the FIFA website. Images: Scott Ehler. 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.
When Jamie Campbell wore a dress to his high school dance, he couldn't have known what would come next. In 2011, his story hit the small screen thanks to TV documentary Jamie — Drag Queen at Sixteen. In 2017, it became an acclaimed West End stage musical, nabbing five Olivier Award nominations in the process. And in 2020, the show is finally heading to Australia for a huge national tour. Premiering at the Sydney Opera House in July before hitting up Western Sydney, Wyong, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Adelaide between September 2020–February 2021, Everybody's Talking About Jamie tells Jamie's coming-of-age tale, complete with an upbeat pop score by The Feeling's Dan Gillespie Sells. Drawn from reality but universal in its emotions and resonance, it's a story of friendship, being yourself and overcoming obstacles such as bullies and prejudice. Here, Jamie New is a 16-year-old living in a council estate in Sheffield in Northern England. He's teased about his sexuality by his classmates, but dreams of attending prom in drag. And, despite the taunting and the small-minded attitudes around him — except from his supportive mum and his loyal friends — he's determined to make that dream a reality. In the Australian production, Fan Girls' James Majoos will play Jamie and Helen Dallimore will play his mother, with the rest of the cast including Simon Burke, Elise McCann, Shubshri Kandiah, Christina O'Neill and Harry Targett. The musical's Aussie run couldn't be better timed, too, with a movie adaptation of Everybody's Talking About Jamie due to hit local cinemas in early December. EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE 2020-21 AUSTRALIAN SEASON Sydney — Saturday, July 18–Sunday, August 30, Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House Western Sydney — Friday, September 4–Sunday, September 13, Sydney Coliseum Theatre, West HQ Wyong — Monday, September 28–Sunday, October 4, The Art House Melbourne — Friday, October 9–Sunday, October 25, Arts Centre Melbourne Brisbane — Friday, November 13–Sunday, November 29, QPAC Canberra — Friday, December 11–Sunday, December 13, Canberra Theatre Centre Perth — Friday, January 22–Sunday, January 31, 2021, His Majesty's Theatre Adelaide — Friday, February 5–Sunday, February 14, 2021, Her Majesty's Theatre Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3mjSUeOg5g&feature=youtu.be Everybody's Talking About Jamie's Australian season will premiere at the Sydney Opera House's Drama Theatre between Saturday, July 18–Sunday, August 30, before touring to Western Sydney from Friday, September 4–Sunday, September 13; Wyong from Monday, September 28–Sunday, October 4; Melbourne from Friday, October 9–Sunday, October 25; Brisbane from Friday, November 13–Sunday, November 29; Canberra from Friday, December 11–Sunday, December 13; Perth from Friday, January 22–Sunday, January 31, 2021 and Adelaide from Friday, February 5–Sunday, February 14, 2021. To join the ticket waitlist, visit the production's website — with Sydney ticket pre-sales starting at 9am on Wednesday, March 11 before general public sales open at 9am on Tuesday, March 17. Top images: Alistair Muir / Johan Persson.
