We've all been there. A night out at the theatre ruined by friends who suddenly start tossing around Eastern European names and words like 'pre-Raphaelite' and 'galvanising' at interval. As lovers of art and Sparknotes in equal measure, we've put together a comprehensive cheat sheet for Belvoir's December production – Barbara and the Camp Dogs. This service comes in three tiers, depending on the level of expertise you're trying to fake: Basic Fraud, The Charlatan's Charlatan and The Talented Mr Ripley. No matter who you are, read on to get your theatrical knowledge up to scratch. BASIC FRAUD My friend had a spare ticket and I don't want to go in blind. Barbara and the Camp Dogs is co-written by Ursula Yovich and Alana Valentine and directed by Leticia Caceres. Barbara, played by Yovich, is the singer in a rock band that is struggling to break into Sydney's music industry. When one of her relatives falls ill, she and her cousin return to their hometown. There they discover a legacy of trauma and a past that Barbara can't reconcile. With a live band onstage for the duration, the story is intertwined with a series of original rock songs. Valentine describes Camp Dogs as "a punch in the air gig", a wild, confronting and hopeful story for people who just want to let it all hang out for a night. THE CHARLATAN'S CHARLATAN I just ran into my boss in the foyer and could score some major points here Ursula Yovich is smashing it right now. She's one of Australia's most successful actresses, having barely stepped foot off an Australian mainstage since her career began. On the occasions that she has, it's been to appear in films such as Australia and Jindabyne and for stints on TV in Redfern Now, The Code and The Gods of Wheat Street. Alana Valentine is a plaudits magnet disguised as a playwright. Two of her plays, Parramatta Girls and Shafana and Aunt Sarrinah, are on the NSW HSC syllabus and the rest of them have taken out virtually every major writing prize in Australia. Just this year, her play Ladies Day was nominated for the Nick Enwright Playwriting Prize at the NSW Premier's Literary Awards, while The Tree Widows took the Best Writing and Judges' Awards at the Tasmanian Theatre Awards. Without either of them knowing it, the idea for Barbara and the Camp Dogs took root as Yovich and Valentine were getting squiffy at the after party of the Helpmann Awards in 2008. It was the first time that Valentine made the acquaintance of Yovich's alter-ego, an unstoppable outspoken dynamo named Barbara, whose manic energy runs counter to that of her more reserved counterpart. Valentine jokes "I didn't get a Helpmann, but I got Barbara which is like 100 times better, more fun and she's lasted longer." When the two began working together on The Barefoot Divas, an exploration of Indigenous women's stories through song, they began to talk more about building a show around Barbara. The idea of incorporating a band came from an old joke Yovich and Stephen Page, the artistic director of Bangarra Dance Company used to share, "He used to joke about me doing an all-girl Aboriginal rock band called Barbara and the Camp Dogs." Nearly twenty years later, the quip became the skeleton of a show, as Valentine puts it, about "what the industry won't let Ursula show or be." THE TALENTED MR RIPLEY I'm meeting my partner's parents for the first time tonight. I told them I love theatre to impress them. That is not the truth. Yovich says Barbara and the Camp Dogs is about being a woman and getting older in a notoriously fickle industry. It is also an account of the hardships that Indigenous artists continue to face throughout their careers. Yovich recalls a conversation she had with Elaine Crombie, who plays the role of her cousin, after they both got into their costumes for a tech rehearsal. "She said 'It feels so good to wear makeup and be wearing a real flash dress.' We're used to playing the mission girls and wearing f***ing potato sacks. So it was nice to be able to break that. Because we're out there. We do that stuff, we wear those platform heels." Despite performing in numerous works focusing on Indigenous experiences and issues throughout her career, Yovich says that Barbara is unique in how fleshed out she is. "I feel like in my twenty years of working and doing Indigenous plays, I've not come across a female character that was complex and also full of anger. Because we're going through the same things as our black men are, but it always felt like we were this kind of side story and I didn't want that." Valentine adds that the piece tussles with female friendship and sibling love. And while we're all too often exposed to a "comfortable" version of these relationships, Barbara and the Camp Dogs finds its truth in "tough love." "We've tried to dig down into the deep pain of this person. And often that deep pain can be hard to define. You can only sing it." Barbara and the Camp Dogs runs at the Belvoir until Saturday, December 23. Get tickets here.
If anyone wanted a big case of déjà vu for Christmas, it's arrived, with COVID-19 cases rising again across New South Wales. And, in response, the NSW Government has changed the state's mask rules to bring back mandatory face coverings indoors. As announced today, Thursday, December 23, wearing masks in inside spaces will become compulsory again at 11.59pm tonight — so, effectively from Friday, December 24. Sydneysiders, that means covering up your smile is now part of your Christmas plans. Face masks will be mandatory inside for all Sydneysiders, in all indoor settings other than homes. Density limits are also back for hospitality — with the one person per two square metre ruled applicable from Monday, December 27 to Thursday, January 27. No other restrictions are being introduced at present; however, Sydneysiders are being encouraged to work from home if they need to work over the festive season. New South Wales reported 5715 new cases today on Thursday, December 23, with 347 people currently in hospital. For those looking to get tested, you can find a list of testing sites including regularly updated waiting times also on the NSW Health website. For more information about the status of COVID-19 and the current restrictions, head over to the NSW Health website.
If you've ever wondered what it'd be like to hit golf balls around the same stadium that hosted the 2000 Sydney Olympics, you'll soon be able to answer that very question. For seven days this December, ANZ Stadium will be transformed into a nine-hole golf course, giving amateur golfers the opportunity to hit a hole-in-one on and around the famous sporting ground. At G9 Stadium Golf, players will have the chance to tee off not only from nine different locations around the stadium, but from different levels of 80,000-plus capacity venue. All of the holes will be located on the turf, though, so you'll be swinging your club in that direction. Capacity is limited, in line with COVID-19-safe practices — and you'll need to bring your own clubs. But if this sounds like your idea of a great stint on the green, you can now book tickets across two December periods, with G9 Stadium Golf operating from Friday, December 4–Sunday, December 6, and then again from Thursday, December 10–Sunday, December 13. Adult tickets start from $79, and tee times commence at 7.30am each day — running through until 7.45pm on Thursdays and Sundays, and till 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays. There'll also be a clubhouse set up onsite, on the stadium's on the north-western terrace, for pre- and post-game sustenance. [caption id="attachment_791765" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] ANZ Stadium via Gavin Anderson, Wikimedia Commons[/caption] G9 Stadium Golf will take place at ANZ Stadium from Friday, December 4–Sunday, December 6, and then again from Thursday, December 10–Sunday, December 13. For more information, head to the event's Facebook page — and to buy tickets, head to Ticketek.
Leah Purcell's resume isn't short on highlights — think: Black Comedy, Wentworth and Redfern Now, plus Lantana, Somersault and Last Cab to Darwin (to name just a few projects) — but the Goa-Gunggari-Wakka Wakka Murri actor, director and writer clearly has a passion project. In 2016, she adapted Henry Lawson's short story The Drover's Wife for the stage. In 2019, she moved it back to the page. Now, she brings it to the big screen via The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson. Only minutes into her searing feature filmmaking debut, why Purcell keeps needing to tell this 19th century-set tale is patently apparent. In her hands, it's a story of anger, power, prejudice and revenge, and also a portrait of a history that's treated both women and Indigenous Australians abhorrently. Aussie cinema hasn't shied away from the nation's problematic past in recent times (see also: Sweet Country, The Nightingale, The Furnace and High Ground); however, this is an unforgettably potent and piercing movie. In a fiery performance that bristles with steeliness, Purcell plays the eponymous, gun-toting and heavily pregnant Molly. In the process, she gives flesh, blood and a name to a character who wasn't allowed the latter in Lawson's version. In this reimagining, Molly is a 19th-century Indigenous Australian woman left alone with her four children (and one on the way) on a remote Snowy Mountains property for lengthy stretches while her husband works — and that situation, including the reasons behind it and the ramifications from it, causes ripples that shape the course of the film. Two of the key questions that The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson asks couldn't be more obvious, but something doesn't have to be subtle to be potent and perceptive. Those queries: what impact does being marginalised twice over, as both a woman and a First Nations Australian, leave on the feature's protagonist? How has it forged her personality, shaped what she cares about and cemented what she's capable of? It's during her spouse's latest absence that the film unfurls its story, not with a snake but rather strangers trotting Molly and her children's way. New sergeant Nate Clintoff (Sam Reid, The Newsreader) and his wife Louisa (Jessica De Gouw, Operation Buffalo) decamp from England — both well-meaning, and the latter a journalist who even protests against domestic violence, but neither truly understands Molly's experience. Also darkening her door: her husband's pals (Dead Lucky's Anthony Cogin and Wakefield's Harry Greenwood), who make the male entitlement and privilege of the time brutally apparent. And, there's no shortage of other locals determined and downright eager to throw their might, morals and opinions around, be it the resident judge (Nicholas Hope, Moon Rock for Monday), the minister (Bruce Spence, The Dry) or his unwed sister (Maggie Dence, Frayed). As Purcell impresses in her stare and stance first and foremost, Molly doesn't let her guard down around anyone. The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson has the parade of supporting characters to show why, and to illustrate the attitudes its namesake has been forced to stomach silently her entire life. She sports physical markers, too; from the outset of this moody and brooding film, there's no doubting that violence is a familiar and frequent part of Molly's existence. But Aboriginal fugitive Yadaka (Rob Collins, Firebite) is one of the few figures to venture in her direction and earn more than her ferocious gaze. He's on the run from murder charges, although he states his real crime bluntly: "existing while Black". Around the Johnson property, he strikes up a warm camaraderie with Molly's eldest boy, 12-year-old Danny (newcomer Malachi Dower-Roberts) — and, in another of the script's point-blank strokes, he's soon the closest thing to an ally his wary host has ever had beyond her children. Fiercely revisionist meat-pie westerns have been having their moments of late — spanning not only the aforementioned stretch of flicks, but back to The Proposition — and it's plain to see why. The always-blistering The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson digs sharply into issues of race, gender and identity, looking backwards with modern eyes to lay bare the horrors that've lingered at Australia's core for too long. It's a silver-screen reckoning, as its predecessors have been as well. It's also as resonant and striking as this Aussies slice of the genre has ever managed. Westerns as a whole have never simply dramatised frontier and colonial times, of course, but pondered the threats, behaviours and ways of thinking that were emboldened and entrenched amid all that dry, dusty land. In that tradition — one that, overseas, includes Deadwood and Django Unchained, too — The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson keenly, shrewdly and forcefully draws cinematic blood. Also simple to spot: the dedication that Purcell brings, on- as well as off-screen, to her unflinching examination of the country's past. It's there in every exacting frame, and obviously in her performance — which adds a new and instantly memorable Indigenous hero to the nation's screens. Purcell makes it impossible to look away from her film and its lead character, even while it's rarely easy to weather everything that Molly's been made to bear. Her scenes with Collins, intimate and heaving with shared woes as they are, crackle and spark with fury and pain. Both veterans of 2016–17 TV series Cleverman (Purcell as a director, Collins as a star), they gift The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson with portrayals that demand attention, and that never let the movie's First Nations, feminist and anti-colonial perspective waver in intensity. The theatre version of The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson won a spate of accolades, the 2017 Helpmann Award for Best Play included, so that there's a stagey feel to Purcell's feature is similarly unsurprising. That's one of its few struggles, though. Cinematographer Mark Wareham (Jasper Jones) has been tasked with trying to thwart that sensation, and overtly — but his expressive camerawork still adds beauty and texture to the film, welcomely so. And, when The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson does resemble impassioned dialogue pitched to the back rows, something else pivotal becomes apparent. A story this fervent and bold should echo across multiple formats. It needs to feel as if it's shouting its ire as far and wide as possible, and that every attempt to do exactly that is bleeding together as well as spreading. The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson will get another chance and another medium to do just that, in fact, with a TV series already slated set to follow this commanding movie.
Rocket travel – so passe, not to mention a fuel suck. It's been 50 years since the first moon landing; surely we've hit on a better way to explore the heavens. NASA's best and brightest shake their heads, strapping cosmonauts to another huge needle-shaped petrol bomb. In reply, Sydney Festival admits it's been studying the other Armstrong to unveil… a bicycle. It's 384,400 kilometres to the moon and Sydney Festival want us to make the distance with pedal power. Stop by World Square and clock up a few kilometres on Sydney-based arts company Erth's latest invention, the Lunar Velocipede. Alternatively, 'donate' some of the kilometres you've ridden on your terra-bikes and help the city escape orbit. The Apollo 11 crew made the journey in three days, you've got two and a half weeks. Best get limber before blastoff. Fly Me to the Moon is part of Sydney Festival's dramatic and diverse 2019 program. Check out the full lineup here.
Sake has really blown up in Australia over the last decade, with more and more bars able to access Japan's national drink. Of course, we're not sake masters — there are so many more varieties of rice wine that we haven't had the chance to experience yet. Enter Nihonshu Australia, an association of sake importers, who are aiming to change that once and for all. Presented by Nihonshu along with REVEL — who organise boozy events including Pinot Palooza and Game of Rhones — Australia's first sake festival is coming to Carriageworks on Saturday, October 28. There'll be more than 60 types of sake on offer, each representing the drink's different styles, serving temperatures and prefectures of origin in Japan. For $60, punters will get access to unlimited tastings plus a free Plumm glass valued at $35. Food will come courtesy of Paper Bird and Toko, while Déjà vu Sake's Yukino Ochia — Australia's only certified sake educator — will also be in attendance. Sake Matsuri will be held at Sydney's Carriageworks from 1pm on Saturday, October 28. For more information visit sakematsuri.com.au.
Sydney Festival is synonymous with the crackle of summer – a new year, an expanse of possibility, and a rediscovery of this here great city, drink in hand and easy grins all round. The Fest has again delivered with the ultimate soundtrack to those sweltering nights. Take a look at our hit list of musical must-sees for Sydney Festival 2012. PJ HARVEY England’s first lady Polly Jean always guarantees to enamour, with her visceral, sensual brand of rock. See her croon songs from ode to her homeland ‘Let England Shake’, plus a crush of PJ classics, with live band comprised of Mick Harvey, John Parish and Jena-Marc Butty. January 18-19 at State Theatre. TUBULAR BELLS FOR TWO The ‘70s record ‘Tubular Bells’ and its cover sit firmly in ‘cult classic’ status. Multi-instrumentalists Daniel Holdsworth and Aiden Roberts were so taken by it that they’re recreating the album live – 2 men, 20 instruments and a cheeky slash of acrobatics thrown in for good measure. January 10-15 at The Reginald Theatre, Seymour Centre. 41 STRINGS BY NICK ZINNER Yeah Yeah Yeahs guitarist Nick Zinner takes inspiration from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and turns it on its head. Joined by members of The Boredoms and Soft Circle, along with an assortment of acoustic and electric strings, drums and synths, Zinner creates a piece which is in turn, brooding, dark, and ultimately joyful. January 22 at Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House. WASHINGTON PRESENTS INSOMNIA Fans of Megan Washington, don’t expect a pow pow smack of her hits. Instead, Insomnia is a conceptual show incorporating art, photography, poetry and designs, drawn from the last 12 months of her life. To be performed only four times ever – in Sydney, Paris, London and New York – expect Washington laid bare. January 25 at Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House. THE JOLLY BOYS Spanning almost 60 years, including wild parties of Errol Flynn, The Jolly Boys have been kicking around, peppering the musical landscape with their Port Antonio flavoured mento (Jamaica’s answer to calypso). Think jumping covers of ‘Blue Monday’, Amy Winehouse’s ‘Rehab’, plus a rash of originals. January 8 and 10 at the Spiegeltent, Hyde Park. AMIINA Amiina continues Iceland’s grand tradition of glacial, ethereal sounds. Formerly the string section for Sigur Ros, the group broke out on their own with their special blend of organised chaos. With their heady mix of glockenspiels, bells, saws and more, their electronica-infused sounds creep along the senses, taking you to a new plain. January 24-26 at the Spiegeltent, Hyde Park. THE WHITEST BOY ALIVE These Norwegians have taut, precise pop down to a fine algorithm. Their sweet, danceable tunes are decidedly sunny-side up, perfect for shy first-date handholding through the crowds in the summer (case in point right here). They’re joined by local pop rockers New Navy. January 21 at Festival Bar, Hyde Park Barracks. MIKE PATTON’S MONDO CANE Mike Patton, the intensely loved frontman of Faith No More isn’t afraid to try new things. With Mondo Cane, Patton takes on the guise of Italian pop crooner, backed by 25-piece ensemble including orchestra, band and choir. See him take on Morricone, Gino Paoli, Elmer Bernstein and more. January 16-17 at State Theatre. Back to Main Page
This article is sponsored by our partner lastminute.com.au. Ah, New York City. 'The City that Never Sleeps'. 'The Big Apple'. 'The Capital of the World'. Whatever you call it, you know it. Recognised as the cultural capital of America, NYC is a melting pot of peoples from all over the world. It's home to some of the best arts, eateries, events and scenes in the world. Its impressive landmarks make it impossible to be mistaken for any other city. We all know the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and of course, Lady Liberty — even if only from our living rooms. Shows like Sex & the City, movies like When Harry Met Sally and songs such as 'Empire State of Mind', have enraptured most of us with the thrill of New York City. If you've every wanted to see what the hype is all about but haven't the slightest idea where to go in the mega-metropolis, travel and lifestyle site lastminute.com.au has you covered. They've scouted out a variety of hotels in the city's many unique neighbourhoods, from the Upper East Side's Gossip Girl style to the low-key, artsy Brooklyn vibe. Here are their favourites. (They're also offering an opportunity for Aussies to 'Win NYE in NYC', so don't miss that.) The Surrey Stars: 5Best for: Classic Upper East Side elegance Once home to some of New York's most high-profile celebrities — including JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert — the Surrey is valued for its excellent service and discretion. The hotel also offers the finest amenities, including a private rooftop garden, spa service and gourmet dining. Venture out of your room into the nearby Central Park or shop along Fifth Avenue; the best of Manhattan living is right outside your door. Affinia Manhattan Stars: 3.5Best for: Apartment living in the heart of the mid-town scene Have bad FOMO? Then this is the place for you. Spot on in the middle of the city, the Affinia Manhattan is centred around all the action. Madison Square Garden, the Empire State Building, Broadway, Times Square, Fifth Avenue shopping and Chelsea art galleries are all just a step away. The Affinia has all the old-school charm of a New York hotel, but with a modern update. So when you’re exhausted from a big day out, relax and enjoy the skyline view from your room. Sohotel New York Stars: 2Best for: Funky slice of downtown with reasonable rates Located in a unique area of lower Manhattan, the Sohotel is in a prime location for urban adventure. Enjoy world-class shops, historic cultural landmarks, delectable eats or vibrant nightlife on the historic Bowery Boulevard. Or discover the quirky neighbourhoods of Nolita, China Town and Little Italy that give the area some cultural flair. You can enjoy it all because the Sohotel offers some pretty affordable rates. Comfort and style are not compromised though — the hotel is a quirky mix of old and young New York style, which in our opinion just adds to the experience. The Greenwich Hotel Stars: 5Best for: Oasis of calm and luxury in the heart of Tribeca Planted in the heart of Tribeca, the Greenwich Hotel is a stone's throw from Wall Street, SoHo, the Meatpacking District and Chinatown. But it could be hard to leave the hotel. A true haven for relaxation, the Greenwich features an authentic Japanese spa with a lantern-lit swimming pool, luxurious lounge and treatment rooms — you might start to believe you’re at a retreat rather than a city. Also, the rooms are all so unique, comfortable and liveable that you might want to think about an extended stay. The Box House Hotel Stars: 3.5Best for: Quirky cool in Brooklyn If you're looking for something a little more offbeat, check out the Box House Hotel in Brooklyn. Located in the industrial chic area of Greenpoint, this hotel offers a variety of quirky and brightly decorated apartments (be sure to request one with a patio or terrace for views of Greenpoint or the Manhattan skyline). A short walking distance to some of Brooklyn's best restaurants and bars, the Box House Hotel offers an authentic Brooklyn experience that's anything but boring.
To ring in the year of the tiger, dumpling master Din Tai Fung created cute chocolate and biscoff tiger buns, continuing its annual tradition of welcoming the Lunar New Year with an adorable addition to its menu (see also: ox buns from 2021 and pig bao from 2019). But creative dishes aren't just a once-a-year thing here. Now that Easter is almost upon us, the chain is serving up something else to tempt your tastebuds: hot cross bao. Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like — and the bao is only available for a limited time. On the outside, each one looks like a hot cross bun, but they're made with fluffy steamed bread. And, you won't find any raisins or sultanas inside — instead, they're filled with gooey molten Nutella. The hot cross bao are available at all Din Tai Fung restaurants and food court outlets in Sydney, so you'll want to hit up its World Square, Westfield Chatswood, Westfield Miranda, Westfield Sydney, Broadway Shopping Centre, Gateway Sydney, The Star, Greenwood Plaza and MLC Centre venues. In Melbourne, you have one spot to head to, with the bao on offer at Emporium Melbourne. If you'd rather have them brought to your door, they're also available for delivery in frozen form. If you're keen to stock your freezer and enjoy them once Easter passes, that's an option as well. The only problem we can foresee with this Easter hybrid dish? Wanting to devour as many as possible. They'll cost you $6.80 for two in-store, and $10 for a three-pack of frozen dumplings. Hot cross bun bao are available for $6.80 for two at all Din Tai Fung stores. They're also available for delivery, for $10 — plus a $10–20 delivery fee.
When the Korean Film Festival in Australia made its debut in 2010, giving the country the cinema showcase that movie lovers definitely knew it needed, it kicked off in Sydney. Since then, the fest has grown and toured, but the Harbour City has always remained a focus. In 2024, in fact — 14 years after launching — the New South Wales capital is the sole location for KOFFIA proper. From Thursday, August 22–Tuesday, August 27, Event Cinema George Street will welcome a feast of Korean movies; however, this year's event won't also hit up Melbourne and Brisbane, as it has on recent runs. Instead, the festival is launching the KOFFIA Touring Program, making stops in Canberra, Burnside, Benalla and Alice Springs from late-August till mid-October. Sydneysiders can look forward to a broader range of exclusive screenings, while folks where the touring lineup is headed are in for a four-film program. For the latter, there'll be another bonus: outside of Sydney, seeing a KOFFIA flick will be free. At all five spots, FAQ will open the fest, which means getting started with a family comedy that follows an elementary-school student broadening his understanding of the world via a talking bottle of rice wine. All locations will also catch serial-killer mystery-thriller Don't Buy the Seller, the canine-adoring Dog Days with Minari Oscar-winner Youn Yuh-jung and the friendship focused Picnic. Only in the Harbour City, cinephiles will be treated to Dr Cheon and the Lost Talisman, as adapted from the Naver webtoon; rom-coms Love Reset (with Project Wolf Hunting's Jung So-min) and Single in Seoul (with Cobweb's Lim Soo-jung); and the based-on-a-true-tale trio of Citizen of a Kind (an action-comedy about taking down a voice phishing scam), Troll Factory (which dives into election intervention) and The Boys (about wrongful convictions for a robbery-homicide). Also in Sydney only, first-time FAQ filmmaker Kim Da-Min, fellow debutant and Dog Days director Kim Deok-min and Picnic's Kim Yong-gyun (Reset) will be in attendance. Counting down the days until Squid Game returns sometime before 2024 is out? Here's how to get your Korean screen fix in the interim. Korean Film Festival in Australia 2024 Dates: Korean Film Festival in Australia Thursday, August 22–Tuesday, August 27 — Event Cinema George St, Sydney KOFFIA Touring Program Saturday, August 31–Sunday, September 1 — Palace Electric Cinema, Canberra Tuesday, September 10–Friday, September 13 — The Regal Theatre, Burnside Saturday, September 14–Sunday, September 15 — Benalla Cinema, Benalla Wednesday, October 9–Saturday, October 12 — Alice Springs Cinema, Alice Springs The Korean Film Festival in Australia 2024 runs in Sydney from Thursday, August 22–Tuesday, August 27, with the KOFFIA Touring Program hitting Canberra, Burnside, Benalla and Alice Springs between August–October. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the KOFFIA website.
Who doesn't like a trip to Tassie? The riesling is crisp, the oysters are fresh and the landscapes are stunning. It's a popular destination, with eager travellers regularly making the trip across the Bass Strait in search of rolling vineyards, empty beaches and contemporary art. This weekend, an adventure down to the island state will be a lot more affordable thanks to Spirit of Tasmania's first ever Black Friday sale, with 30 percent off passenger fares. Over the Black Friday weekend sale, starting Friday, November 29, and ending at midnight on Monday, December 2, you can secure tickets for the ship from just $62 per adult, or $21 for kids, each way. All you have to do is select travel dates between February 3 and June 30, 2020 (with exceptions over the Easter period). Those of you planning on going to Dark Mofo 2020 will notice those dates cover the 12-day winter festival. So, round up the crew to bag a Mofo bargain — well, at least on the travel. Perks of travelling with Spirit of Tasmania include the ability to drive your car onto the ship, so you can embark on a dream Tassie road trip without the hassle of hire car fees and luggage restrictions on planes. Plus, your holiday starts as soon as your feet hit the deck. If you're looking to save on accommodation costs, book a night voyage and make the most of the three bars, restaurant, two cinemas and live music on board, too. If you don't want to let this offer sail you by, jump online between Friday, November 29 and Monday, December 2 to snap up tickets.
Does your version of celebrating the festive season involve eating more of the things you love? Do pork belly, chicken schnitzels, chicken wings and German sausages fall into that category? If so, The Bavarian has an all-you-can-eat special that'll tempt your tastebuds — because a bottomless feast is on the menu. On Thursdays between November 18–December 23, the German-themed chain is serving up all-you-can-eat meat platters. They come stacked with all of the aforementioned meats — and yes, the pork belly includes crackling — plus mashed potato, sauerkraut and red cabbage as sides. And, once you've finished your board, you'll get a whole new serving. There's no time limit to your eating, so you can pace yourself — and it'll cost you $35 per person. There is a two-person minimum, however, so you'll need to take at least one meat-loving pal along with you. You'll find The Bavarian at Charlestown, Rouse Hill, Castle Hill, Shellharbour, Tuggerah, Manly, Penrith, Miranda, Macarthur, Green Hills, Entertainment Quarter, York Street, World Square, Wetherill Park and Chatswood in New South Wales. And if you want to pair all that meat with German brews — which is understandable — you'll pay extra for the drinks.
Prepare your taste buds for a night of gastronomic adventures as Silvester's, in Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay, welcomes new Head Chef Abhijit Dey. It marks a new era at the hotel's flagship restaurant. Hailing from Kolkata, India, and having honed his culinary finesse in prestigious Auckland establishments such as Orphans Kitchen, Clooney, SO/ AUCKLAND, and The Sugar Club at Skycity, Abhi has now infused his innovative flair into Silvester's menu. Indulge in the cured meats, seafood, and succulent cuts from the butcher's block. Dive into the a la carte menu featuring freshly shucked oysters paired with gooseberry, king prawns bathed in lemon butter and chilli, and Murray cod with avocado and whey butter. To enhance your dining experience further, Silvester's presents a seasonal five-course 'chef's selection' menu that showcases Abhi's personal favourites. Picture Spencer Gulf kingfish with persimmon, lemon myrtle, and almond fraiche, or relish the flavours of dry-aged Wollemi duck accompanied by Davidson plum ketchup and beetroot. Complementing the delectable fare is a beverage list featuring over 80 Australian and New Zealand wines. But the excitement doesn't end there. Silvester's is hosting an exclusive event on Friday, July 7, where it will be partnering with NON — a non-alcoholic wine alternative — for a booze-free degustation. Chef Abhi Dey has curated a three-course menu to pair with NON's innovative beverages. Tickets cost $99 per person and include snacks, the three-course menu and four NON drinks. It takes place from 6.30–8:30pm, and tickets can be booked now. To book your spot at Silvester's special NON dinner, head to the website.
The long weekend is here. And, as Monday is a public holiday, some of your regular spots will be shut. So, if you're on the hunt for a caffeine hit, long lunch or a few more beers, we've put together an extensive list of all the bars, cafes and restaurants that'll be open on Monday, October 7. There is something for everybody on this list, too — from yum cha at Chin Chin to A1 Canteen's famed muffuletta and Wayward's craft brews. And if you're looking for further inspiration on how to spend your days off, head this way for our pick of the best long weekend happenings. [caption id="attachment_645827" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chin Chin[/caption] RESTAURANTS Aria, Circular Quay: noon–2.15pm; 5.30–10.30pm Banksii, Barangaroo: noon–5pm The Bucket List, Bondi: 11am–5pm Chin Chin, Surry Hills: 11.30am–11pm Ciccia Bella, Bondi: 5pm–late Coogee Wine Room, Coogee: 3pm–late Dopa Don and Milkbar, Darling Square: 11am–10pm The Fenwick, Balmain East: 7–10.30am, noon–5pm Franca Brasserie, Potts Point: noon–midnight North Bondi Fish, North Bondi: noon–midnight Vecino, Canterbury: 7am–10pm Yellow, Potts Point: 5pm–11pm Taffy's, Neutral Bay: 10am–midnight The Paddo Inn, Paddington: noon–10pm [caption id="attachment_684208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mary's Newtown[/caption] BARS Archie Rose Distillery, Rosebery: noon–10pm The Australian Heritage Hotel, The Rocks: 11am–midnight The Dolphin, Surry Hills: 11.30am–10pm The Glenmore, The Rocks: 11am–midnight The Imperial, Erskineville: noon–midnight Manly Wharf Hotel, Manly: 11am–late Mary's, Newtown: 4pm–midnight; Circular Quay: noon–midnight Opera Bar, Bennelong Point: 11am–11.30pm Public House Petersham, Petersham: 11am–midnight The Royal Hotel, Paddington: 11am–10pm Sauce Brewing Co., Marrickville: noon–8pm Tudor Hotel, Redfern: 10am–10pm The Unicorn, Paddington: 4pm–1am Wayward Brewing Company, Camperdown: 4–8pm [caption id="attachment_625345" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Grounds of the City by Bodhi Liggett[/caption] CAFES A1 Canteen, Chippendale: 8am–3pm Bills, Bondi: 7.30am–10pm; Darlinghurst: 8am–3pm; Surry Hills: 8am–10pm Bourke Street Bakery, all stores except North Sydney: 8am–3pm Devon Cafe, Barangaroo, Surry Hills and North Sydney: 8am–3pm Edition Coffee Roasters, Haymarket: 9am–4pm The Grounds of Alexandria, Alexandria: The Cafe, 7.30am–4pm; The Potting Shed, 11am–9pm; The Garden, 8am–3.45pm The Grounds of the City, CBD: 8.30am–5pm Matinee Coffee, Marrickville: 7am–4pm (kitchen closes 3pm) Paramount Coffee Project, Surry Hills: 7am–4pm Reuben Hills, Surry Hills: 8am–3pm Three Blue Ducks, Bronte: 7am–2.30pm Top image: Matinee Coffee by Letícia Almeida.
Pyrmont has well and truly shaken off its rough and industrial past. Backbreaking quarries dubbed Purgatory and Hells Hole have been replaced with award-winning restaurants and glitzy bars. It's central, buzzing and diverse. Come for the view, stay for the party. You'll find a cocktail for every taste and every weekend. Settle in for an alfresco afternoon at Pizzaperta or a sunset sojourn at Peacock Lounge at Sky Terrace. The nightlife scene is well and truly swinging into the wee hours. After all, why limit happy to an hour? We give you some top-notch cocktails to try in Pyrmont before summer slips away. APEROL SPRITZ AT PIZZAPERTA As the name suggests, Pizzaperta is all about the humble wood-fired pizza. This summer, though, the team is adding a zesty twist to their artisanal menu. Serving up a summer aperitif favourite, the pizza purveyors are slinging Aperol spritz for just $12. Fruity, bitter and bubbly all at the same time — pair one of these beauties with some $5 Italian nibbles off the summer snacks menu and you'll feel like you've landed somewhere along a Venetian canal by way of Pyrmont. THE PARFUM AT SOKYO LOUNGE Pantone declared Ultra Violet as the colour of 2018, and award-winning Japanese restaurant and lounge Sokyo remains ahead of the curve. The team dreamt up a violet-toned martini dubbed The Parfum long before Pantone made the call. It's one of the prettiest cocktails around town, served in a glass goblet and garnished with edible flowers. With a gin base, Saint Germaine elderflower liqueur, Massanez crème de violette and lemon juice, The Parfum is a beautiful and delectable sip, served alongside the kingfish wings with shichimi butter, available this summer only SYDNEY SIDE AT BLACK BAR What does Sydney taste like? Zesty, spicy and sweet with a kick according to Black Bar. They've released a cocktail just for summer called the Sydney Side. Lemongrass-infused vodka, elderflower cordial, fresh lime juice and homemade secret ingredient velvet falernum cordial combine to superb effect. With each sip, see if you can guess the surprising flavours used to blend velvet falernum — a Barbados bar scene staple. Here's a hint: a spice, a herb, a root and a nut walk into a bar. The refreshing drink is served with a twist of lime and matches well with their mojama on squid ink crackers with smoked creme fraiche, oysters and other seafood. Enjoy over lunch from 12–3pm on Friday to Sunday or from 5.30pm every day except Monday. NEGRONI AT BALLA APERITIVI BAR Were you left at home in the cold while all your friends galavanted around Italian summer this year? Well, Balla Aperitivi Bar offers a pretty tasty consolation prize in the form of a well-balanced negroni, served alongside wood-fired calamari skewers. The walk-in bar is part of the award-winning Balla, so you know you'll be met with quality. Available until the end of January, the cocktail and nibbles special is one to keep in mind for when you're on the hunt for a feed before seeing a show at Sydney Lyric. FROSÉ AT PEACOCK LOUNGE ON SKY TERRACE Sydney's seasonal rooftop bar Peacock Lounge has returned to Sky Terrace for the summer and is pouring a new summer favourite that joined the likes of the spritz and G&T last year: frosé. It's set to be another scorcher this summer, so stay cool with an icy rosé cocktail. The frosty drink is available for just a crisp tenner during happy hour from 5 to 7pm every Friday. We recommend getting there early to nab the best seat in the house overlooking the water and the eventual sunset. See everything that's going on at The Star this summer here. Hungry? Hit these Pyrmont spots for some summer eats.
Come June, you'll be able to enter the gateway to the Upside Down — if you dare. Keep an eye out for demogorgons, mind flayers and, maybe even, Hopper as you head into Sydney's latest pop-up bar. If you haven't guessed, the new themed watering hole is inspired by Stranger Things, so expect plenty of 80s pop culture references, too, when the Upside Down Bar takes over a secret location on Sunday, June 7. You'll see upturned tables, Eggos on the roof and a room inspired by Joyce Byers' house (complete with an illuminated alphabet on the wall) as you sit down for Stranger Things-themed cocktails. Sip on the likes of the Eleven's Eggos and Demorgorgon slushies, a caramelised pineapple Mouthbreather number and the Snack Pack, made with mezcal and passion fruit. While the bar's location is firmly under wraps for now, we do know that the bar will also have DJs, arcade games and even a "dark and dangerous mission" that you'll have the possibility to complete. The pop-up bar's opening is happening ahead of the much-anticipated fourth season of Stranger Things, which does not yet have a trailer or release date. But, we'll let you know as soon as it does. You can pre-register for tickets to the Upside Down Bar over here.
A fan of multi-colored dreadlocks and intergalactic funk so energetic it can only be described as 'musical Viagra', George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic are back to give a rollercoaster of a funk performance with their three-hour P-Funk Feast, so dig in. Seasoned funk artist George Clinton has been releasing albums since 1967 and helped to revolutionize the funk genre alongside the legendary James Brown and Sly Stone, and he hasn't lost his groove. He's since teamed up with modern musicians The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Snoop Dog. and was recognised when the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted 16 members of his group the P-Funk Collective in 1997. His big hits include 'Maggot Brains', 'Atomic Dog' and 'Mothership Connection', and he shows no sign of slowing down, touring 200 days per year. Now that's some pretty strong stuff. 26 of the Parliament Funkadelic crew will be tearing up the stage alongside Clinton this April.
Manly is set to gain a very secretive new addition when The Cumberland opens its doors. This August, you'll be able to head through a 1920s-style fridge door and wind down a spiral staircase into this underground speakeasy-style bar. The new northern beaches spot comes from owner Matt Clifton, who is the manager director of MJC Group of Companies, which is also responsible for Manly's Donny's Bar and In Situ. He's signed on general manager Pete Ehemann, too, who has worked at the likes of the Ivy and Coogee Pavilion. Behind the bar, over 250 whiskies from around the world will line the shelves. This serious spirit collection will be accompanied by signature cocktails that use local botanicals, along with organic Australian wines and craft beers from both local and European makers. For eats, there'll be Spanish cured meats and cheeses, as well as pork rillettes, baked camembert and plates of hot, melted raclette. Surry Hills' AZB Creative is responsible for the fit-out — images of which have been kept well under wraps, for now. But, we're told to expect ornate and vintage furnishings, upcycled timber, marble bench tops, hand-carved sandstone and clay brickwork. Plus, antique brass and copper accents, including the beer taps — an original set, dating back to 1902. A leather banquette will also wrap around the space, which will sit 70 all up. The Cumberland will open at a yet-to-be-announced address in Manly this August. Keep an eye on this space for more details.
If chant-like voices and anthems of "go, go, go, go" do in fact get you going, then The Presets live is just the ticket. Yup, those crazy kids are back on our fine shores belting out songs from Pacifica as well as less recent albums Beams and Apocalypso. Last year they were industry-voted Best Live Act at the 2012 In The Mix Awards, and this February will be joined by dancey locals Parachute Youth and Light Year. This can only mean good things for your ears and your feet: Just remember to wear shoes that enjoy a bit of movement. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Di5AT4MI6BY
Laptop orchestras, mind-bending group improvisations, no input mixers and Australia's finest white noise specialists will all be on show at Firstdraft's celebration of experimental music: Night Depot #2. Firstdraft's second foray into live experimental music promises to be an evening dedicated to that most amorphous and malleable concept of 'sound'. Ditching the constraints that regular musical structures afford performers, Night Depot #2 is all about exploring the sonic possibilities that a group of musicians can unlock in the freedom of a live space. With the massed improvisations of The Splinter Orchestra, the nine-piece laptop ensemble Erk's Orchestra and the beeps, bleeps and buzzing of Jonathan Watts no-input mixer, it seems fair to say that this ain't your regular concert night. Throw together 30 electro artists, classical and jazz musicians and blokes who like to record the sounds of nature and you have something resembling the remarkable Splinter Orchestra. Without conductor or leader, this remarkable ensemble are able to create a soundscape of surprisingly spacey and minimalist improvisations unlike any other in Australia. On the other hand, both the Erk's Orchestra (Electronic Resonance Korps) and Jonathan Watts have rid themselves of anything resembling a standard musical instrument, instead favouring to explore the sonic stylings of computer software and the no-input mixer (as in that thing you plug your guitar into). With Firstdraft's reputation for pushing boundaries and setting the standard in artistic mindfuckery, Night Depot #2 may not always resemble what we might call 'music', but it is sure to be a fascinating and enthralling trip into the sonic unknown.
Everyone could use a dose of big-screen escapism every now and then, whether you're an avid movie buff all-year-round, a casual cinemagoer or can't remember the last time you caught a flick at the pictures. That's on offer every day of the week at the Ritz Cinema, of course, but between Thursday, September 8–Wednesday, September 14 it'll only cost you $5. Yes, that's a mighty cheap price for a trip to the movies, and it means that you can even treat your bestie, date or mum to a flick and pay just ten dollars for both of you. Some of the films you'll be able to catch during the week include a few of the biggest titles around at the moment — such as Jordan Peele's creepy and clever Nope, Brad Pitt-starring action onslaught Bullet Train and the breathtaking Top Gun: Maverick (in case you haven't seen them yet). [caption id="attachment_656246" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low[/caption] Also showing: Baz Lurhmann's stunning Elvis; Emma Thompson-starring sex comedy Good Luck To You, Leo Grande; big-screen must-see documentary Fire of Love, about a couple of volcanologists; and George Miller's Three Thousand Years of Longing. Yes, the list goes on. The $5 tickets are available at all regular sessions across the seven days — other than sneak previews, advance screenings, special events and retro films — and bookings open from Monday, September 5. To book your $5 tickets, just head to the Ritz Cinema website. And if you fancy becoming a member at the cinema, that'll only cost you $1 across the seven days as well.
Food. Consumption. Waste. Nope, this isn't about the latest disaster from My Kitchen Rules. This is a production from PACT theatre's Ensemble team. A bunch of 18-30 year olds with a penchant for the stage has been rounded up, shaped, and then moulded by PACT, like plasticine, for a year. Or rather, they’ve undergone creative mentorship (as they call it). And now, it's their turn to show us their stuff. Julie Vulcan is the one directing these eight emerging artists in their dark comedic performance. A performance that asks, "when is one person's insane act another’s act of sanity?" While that's a tricky question, what is for certain is that it will be experiemental. It'll look at rituals. And habits. They’re calling it kinda like a supper club and it’s going to be a visual feast (yes, that’s a food pun alright).
The Centipede Cinema is way less creepy than it sounds. The Bartlett School of Architecture in Portugal has designed a cinema in which each moviegoer manoeuvres his or her body into one of the yellow tubes that makes up the giant centipede structure to view the film. Located in Guimarães and conceived by Professor Colin Fournier with artist Marysia Lewandowska, the Centipede Cinema was commissioned by the 2012 European Capital of Culture. The design team for the project included NEON founders, George King and Mark Nixon. Resembling a sort of futuristic alien spaceship, this highly unique cinema invites people to enter one of the 16 nozzles poking out from below the cork structure. The viewer's entire upper body is encompassed by the nozzle, however the legs are out in the open for the rest of the world to see. This creates what looks like a giant cork centipede but is really just 16 people enjoying a film.
Wollongong will be rocking its smaller-than-Sydney vibes in a big way when the Yours & Owls music festival takes over Stuart Park from September 30 through to October 1. Presented by triple j, this intimate festival is known for its impressively curated lineup combining local Aussie talent and handpicked international bands in a weekend that brings together some top alternative acts. Though the festival is still in its infancy, Yours & Owls is certainly one to check out — tickets start at a a not-exorbitant $115. The team is promising the craziest year yet, with some big name artists making their debut in The Gong, along with an eclectic mix of tunes from dance to indie to total bangers. Saturday-only passes have already sold out, but you can still nab a ticket for Sunday or the two days. Make a weekend out of it with our weekender's guide to Wollongong. YOURS & OWLS 2017 LINEUP At The Drive-In The Presets A.B. Original Alex Lahey Ali Barter Allday Andrew Jackson Jihad (AJJ) Bad//Dreems Bec Sandridge Cash Savage & The Last Drinks City Calm Down Confidence Man Cosmo's Midnight Crooked Colours Donny Benet Showband Dune Rats Electric Wire Hustle Ghost Wave Gold Class Holy Holy Horror My Friend Illy Ivan Ooze Le Butcherettes Major Leagues Montaigne Moonbase Northeast Party House Northlane The Preatures Ruby Fields SAFIA Slum Sociable Sorority Noise Tees The Orwells The Pinheads Totally Unicorn Trophy Eyes + more Image: Chris Frape.
They promised to turn the humble act of enjoying a pint into something that could make a difference, and they've delivered. Now, after amassing around $37,000 through a successful crowdfunding campaign, and then brewing a beverage that will help support the Great Barrier Reef, The Good Beer Co.'s maiden beer is coming to bottleshops around Australia. First stop: Queensland. The Great Barrier Beer is a Queensland-brewed beer designed to raise funds for one of Queensland's natural wonders, after all. In addition to being able to order the brew online and find it at a range of pubs, restaurants and other booze-serving establishments (including in New South Wales, with more there and in Victoria to follow), you'll now find it at 1oo BWS stores around the Sunshine State. And if you're wondering why that's a big deal, keep reading. As Australia's first social enterprise beer company, The Good Beer Co. is on a mission to match nice drinks with nice deeds. The company aims to pair the nation's top craft brewers with worthy causes, as the Great Barrier Beer demonstrates. It's brewed in Bundaberg by the local legends at the Bargara Brewing Company, and it does more than increase awareness. The Good Beer Co donates 50% of the profits of every beer sold to the Australian Marine Conservation Society, so expanding the number of places it's available is a massive step. That's not the end of their efforts, however. Another thirst-quenching Great Barrier Beer will soon be a-brewing courtesy of Bargara Brewing Company — and to get to that point, though, The Good Beer Co. is asking for your help again. This time, there's a choice of three different options, each backed by top chefs from around Queensland, that you can also vote for. Of course, whether you prefer a Kölsch, a blonde-style brew or a cider, supporting a good cause and helping save a natural icon is the real winner. For more information about The Good Beer Co, including a list of Great Barrier Beer stockists, visit their website. To support their next beverage, check out their new crowdfunding campaign.
There's nothing quite like Sydney in summer; the steady hum of cicadas, the sea breeze wafting through the air, the balmy days followed by the ever-reprieving southerly. Yep, when the sunny season hits, we Sydneysiders are always keen to get outdoors and discover new things to eat, see and do in our harbour city. And, to make sure you don't miss a sight, sound or sip this summer, we've partnered with Tanqueray to pull together a lineup of activities that'll see you enjoying the best of Sydney with, of course, a top-notch botanical tipple in hand. (Because everybody knows gin is the summer drink.) From dirty martini clubs to outdoor cinemas with blow-up beds, we've got all you summer-lovers catered for. JOIN THE MOYA'S DIRTY MARTINI CLUB Ah, finally a club that you'll actually want to be a member of. The Dirty Martini Club at Moya's Juniper Lounge is a new monthly gathering amass with gin lovers. The club pays tribute to one of the best juniper-based tipples, the Tanqueray dirty martini, which you can enjoy for just $10. Headed up by siblings Charles and Jess Casben, Moya's is a small, sultry bar with dim lights, vintage lounges and eclectic paintings adorning the walls. It's elegant and refined yet has a dark edge — much like the dirty martini itself — and is the perfect place to escape the heat and while away a summer evening. Head along on Wednesday, March 13 and Wednesday, April 17 from 8pm to mix among other martini devotees. SPEND THE DAY AT SOL SPA After a chock-a-block year and the endless December festivities, its time for a spot of relaxation. Treat yourself to a two-hour Absolute Pamper Package at Sol Spa, for tip-to-toe indulgence. The package includes a dry body brush and nourishing coconut scrub to rehydrate your skin, a full body massage to relieve tension and a blissful scalp massage. At $200, it's not exactly cheap but, hey, you've been working hard. Once you're sufficiently recharged, head next door to The Botanica Vaucluse for a post-preen Tanqueray No. Ten and tonic, and soak in the afternoon summer sun. SEE A FLICK AT SYDNEY'S OUTDOOR BED CINEMA Moore Park's Mov'in Bed is back for summer, running till Sunday, March 3. So, grab a buddy, curl up on a big blow-up bed with a blankie and bottomless popcorn to watch the latest films on the big screen. The program encompasses both old and new flicks — from A Star is Born and Bohemian Rhapsody to Beetlejuice and The Lion King — with every type of cinephile considered. After you've got your cinematic fix, take a short 30-minute stroll through Moore Park to cocktail mecca This Must be the Place. Order a 'Belafonte' spritz with Fino sherry, Tanqueray No. Ten, lemon, prosecco and basil to really get a taste of summer. Alternatively, grab a bottle of Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla and make your own Seville orange spritz at home. LEARN HOW TO MAKE SUSHI AND SASHIMI LIKE AN IRON CHEF Ever wanted to learn how to construct the perfect nori roll or to slice sashimi like Jiro Ono? (It's always good to aim high.) Head to Crane Bar in Potts Point for a sushi and sashimi masterclass, and learn the ins and outs of Japanese cuisine. Running every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm, the two-hour class will teach you how to expertly prepare and slice fish. You'll also be given a recipe book to take home, a certificate, and some nibbles to enjoy while you roll. Once you've finished with fish, savour a Tanqueray cocktail, like the White Lady, with Tanqueray, Cointreau, lemon juice and zest, or the Brambler, with Tanqueray, Chambord, lemon juice and sugar syrup, and cheers to your rolling success. ENJOY BAREFOOT BOWLS AT THE GREENS IN NORTH SYDNEY You might've been to this North Sydney stalwart before, but, let's face it, those city skyline views never get old. (And neither does going barefoot, especially in summer.) Grab some friends, kick off your shoes and see who is the best bowler in your crew. The Greens is open seven days a week and runs two-hour social bowls for $25 per person. No matter your sporting ability, bowls are a fun, relatively easy summer activity for all types. Yep, even your very uncoordinated best friend. When hunger strikes, order the Barman's Plate packed with cheese, olives and bread, along with a signature Green's Grove cocktail with Tanqueray No. TEN, yuzu, lemon, elderflower, cucumber and basil. Celebrate the return of summer with a Tanqueray tipple in hand at home or around your city. Top image: The Greens.
Whatever you're doing this weekend — gardening, partying, doing your tax return — you're going to need a killer soundtrack. This is that soundtrack. <a href="http://fbiradio.bandcamp.com/album/song-reader-sydney-sessions" mce_href="http://fbiradio.bandcamp.com/album/song-reader-sydney-sessions">Song Reader Sydney - Sessions by Aidan Roberts</a> 1. AIDAN ROBERTS - NOW THAT YOUR DOLLAR BILLS HAVE SPROUTED WINGS Last year, American indie hero Beck released an album called Song Reader. Nothing exciting there, except that he released it as sheet music only, the idea being that to listen to the music, you needed to be a part of a community, and to sit around with musician friends and create the music together. Beck's imagining of a community inspired a small, dedicated group of Australian music industry folk to put on a show late last year, where the likes of Sarah Blasko, Jonathan Boulet, Josh Pyke and Caitlin Park came together to play the 'album' in full. Now, some six months later, our friends at Sydney's FBi Radio have released perhaps the world's first full Song Reader album, available on iTunes and via FBi's Bandcamp page. And they are doing it for charity, with all money raised going to the Sydney Story Factory — an organisation that encourages and fosters creative writing among marginalised and disadvantaged young people. This — from Aidan Roberts of The Maple Trail and Belles Will Ring — is just beautiful and heartbreaking and all those wonderful words. (Oh, and that wailing guitar noise you hear in the background? That's local legend Brian Campeau dragging kitchen scissors across his guitar strings.) 2. PAPA - YOUNG RUT They haven't even released an album yet, but PAPA are a group to keep an eye on. The two-piece from Los Angeles make perfect indie-pop, but there's always something fascinating going on just on the edges that stops it sinking in to dullness. On 'Young Rut' it's those guitars in the chorus that crash in and transform the song from mid-tempo and forgettable to urgent, driving and absolutely indispensable. And more than one reviewer has noted a touch of the Springsteen in drummer/singer Darren Weiss's voice. It's time to hop on board the PAPA bandwagon, because they're pulling outta here to win. 3. KANYE WEST / TAME IMPALA - BLACK SKINHEAD vs. ELEPHANT In case you hadn't noticed, Kanye West recently released a new album. Whatever you think of him as a human being, there's no question that his desperate need to be A Serious Artist has led to some of the best hip hop of the past decade — 'Jesus Walks', 'Stronger', almost all of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, 'Gold Digger', 'Touch The Sky', and so many more. 'Black Skinhead' is another such song, one that seems to be tearing down everything Kanye has built up around him: gold chains, designer clothes, even his own celebrity. And this mashup — essentially just Kanye's vocals over Tame Impala's 'Elephant' — works really well and demonstrates that Kanye really can do anything, even if that is rapping over an Australian psych/rock band. 4. JESSICA PRATT - HOLLYWOOD Originally released at the end of 2012 in the US, Jessica Pratt's self-titled debut has only just made its way to our sunny shoes. But it's well worth the wait. 'Hollywood' recalls nothing more than the folk of the late 1960s, Pratt sounding for all the world like Joan Baez, or a young Joni Mitchell. With just a guitar and her voice Pratt presents incredibly vivid descriptions of the world around her, and manages to capture the excitement and confusion of being young and arriving in a new city, redolent with possibilities. If you enjoyed the Laura Marling track we featured here a few weeks ago, then you will absolutely love this. https://youtube.com/watch?v=unNa-9qGkfI 5. NEKO CASE - MAN You might know Neko Case from The New Pornographers or from her amazing solo albums (if you don't, you need a copy of Twin Cinema and Middle Cyclone right this second), and she's always seemed like that one awesome older sister/aunt/friend you always wished you had: wry, badass and full of knowledge of the ways of the world. And now she's back with her newest solo album, The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight, The Harder I Fight, The More I Love You. The title might be hard work, but the record won't be: Case's combination of country, indie, folk and rock and roll influences has led to a handful of absolutely essential albums, with her beautiful, clear, bell-like voice able to adapt itself to the music. She's also a shredding guitarist, gives no fucks, and once revealed on Spicks and Specks that her grandmother was one of America's first professional female wrestlers. All the types of rad.
If ever there was a dance party you could take your folks to, it's Hot Dub Time Machine. While they'll get their dose of Bill Haley and the Comets, you'll get your Swifty. Over the course of one long set, Sydney DJ Tom Loud spins, mixes and mashes his way through the story of dance music — since 1954. The catch is that the entire operation is 'powered' by energy generated by the crowd. Whether you're dancing, singing, talking or yelling, you'll be helping to keep the action rolling. But if, at any point, the people's contribution drops to a level lower than that of a "fully sick party", the Hot Dub Time Machine will come to a grinding halt, meaning you'll be stuck in time — repeatedly listening to "when-ever" you've landed. First performed at the Sydney Fringe Festival 2011, Hot Dub Time Machine has since been a hit at festivals and clubs in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. He's made several appearances at Sydney Festival, Splendour in the Grass, Falls Festival and St Kilda Festival, then smashed the final set at Secret Garden Festival this year. You'd better come ready to throw shapes, because this ain't no stand-still gig.
Fifty years, oh-so-many epic campaigns, and everything from movies to video games, too: that's the Dungeons & Dragons story. 2024 marks half a century since the tabletop roleplaying game first had its players rolling the dice and spinning fantasy tales, a milestone that's being celebrated Down Under with the Australasian premiere of Dungeons & Dragons' leap to the stage. Get excited about DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern. Normally a trip to the theatre means engaging via watching, not by playing a part; however, that fittingly isn't the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern experience. Audience members don't simply view this version of the game — they also play along, choosing the characters and helping shape the story. Here's how it works, as Australians have been able to discover at the Sydney Opera House Studio since Sunday, December 15, 2024: when you take your seat, you're a key aspect of the show. Entering the Forgotten Realms, you also pick the experiences and other elements of the performance using Gamiotics software, with more than 30 playable characters, 34 backgrounds and 28 combat effects involved. Still on numbers, the production also features 40-plus custom character illustrations, 40 item cards and over 300 individual pieces of content. Five actors take to the stage to bring all of the above to life, including via games, combat, puzzles and riddles — and, because of DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern's interactive nature, they're not just performing the same roles each time. Shaking things up for the audience and the cast alike, this experience is never the same twice. Images: Daniel Boud.
Life is full of golden moments. An early-morning swim and sipping beers in the afternoon sunshine are some of our favourites. But what comes out on top for us is a long weekend. This April, we're being treated to two long weekends in a row. Luckily, we know a thing or two about making the most of our time out of office. Whether you're seeking luxury experiences in Victoria, a multi-day hike in the wilderness or an excuse to soak up the best of the harbour city, we've got your back. Our mates at Ferrero Rocher love a long weekend, too. So much so that the chocolate company has released a range of Easter treats including creamy hazelnut-filled Ferrero Collection Easter Eggs, an impressive Golden Easter Egg Gift Box and more (ideal for indulging in while on holiday if you ask us). To celebrate our mutual love of a long weekend, we've teamed up with the chocolate connoisseurs to give you a $1000 gift card to spend on a long weekend away. But it doesn't stop there. You'll also receive a stack of delicious chocolate from the Ferrero Rocher Easter range. Egg hunt anyone? If you miss out on the major prize, don't fret. We've also got 29 Ferrero Rocher chocolate prize packs up for grabs. The packs include one grand Ferrero Rocher, a boxed egg, three packs of Easter eggs and one dark chocolate grand Ferrero Rocher. To enter, simply tell us in 25 words or less what your ultimate long weekend looks like. Want to nab one of these incredible prizes? To enter, fill out your details below. [competition]849038[/competition]
Many Sydneysiders are currently in isolation with Omicron doing its worst. If you are among them, it's important to put activities that help you unwind and de-stress to the top of your to-do list. While you're stuck at home, there are plenty of things you can do to care for your physical, mental and emotional health. Whether you're jumping on a meditation app or getting submerged in fragrant bath products, these self-care ideas will hopefully get you feeling somewhere well north of 'fine'. [caption id="attachment_817467" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Byron Bay Candles[/caption] SOOTHING CANDLES Want to transform your pad into an aromatherapy haven? If that candle collection is in need of some fresh talent, you'll find some gems being created by the folks at Byron Bay Candles. These hand-poured pure soy products come in uplifting scents like Coconut Lime, Japanese Honeysuckle and the neroli-infused Beach Holiday, with free Australia-wide shipping available for orders over $75. Then there's luxury fragrance house Lumira with its range of sophisticated hand-crafted candles that will make your living space smell gorgeous. Jump online to order scents like Balinese Ylang Ylang and Tahitian Coconut, shipped to your door. [caption id="attachment_814441" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Monstera via Pexels[/caption] LUXE BATH ADDITIONS While you may not be able to visit a day spa, if you've got a bathtub you can recreate the magic at home. Light a few candles, throw on some of your favourite tunes and make that next bath a proper event. Blue Mountains-born label Ikou can help level up bathtime with its line of aromatherapy soaks and a de-stressing bubble bath with lavender and geranium. Sydney's Sweet Cherry Soda sells an array of salts, oils and doughnut-inspired bath bombs that look almost good enough to eat (but please don't). Or, try Get Drenched's hefty line of bath goodies — from fizzy bath mallows to luxurious milk soaks scented with coconut and rose. [caption id="attachment_817460" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Seven Islands Skincare[/caption] DECADENT BODY SCRUBS A great body scrub helps to slough away stress and dry skin. Win! Seven Islands Skincare has a range of toxin-free products inspired by Mediterranean skincare traditions, including a lush exfoliating body scrub crafted with honey and crushed olive seeds. Renowned brand Grown Alchemist makes both a purifying and intensive scrub, with the latter featuring ingredients like volcanic pumice and activated charcoal. And Endota's restorative recovery scrub is designed to release toxicity and soothe tense muscles, while buffing your skin to blissful smoothness. MEDITATION Offering a stack of physical and emotional benefits, meditation is a staple in the self-care toolkit. Among other things, the practice is thought to help reduce depression, alleviate stress, manage anxiety and improve sleep, so it's a worthwhile addition to your routine. If you're keen to meditate your way out of that isolation funk, there's a variety of handy online tools to get you started. The widely-used Headspace app simplifies things with a brief beginners course that teaches the basics of meditation in just a few minutes a day. Award-winning app Calm has its own variety of meditation lessons, along with expert-taught masterclasses, guided exercises and relaxing soundscapes you can use in your future meditative endeavours. Sydney Buddhist Centre currently runs online morning meditation sessions via Zoom on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And in-depth online meditation courses are offered by the likes of the Zen Room. [caption id="attachment_814161" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Christin Hume via Unsplash[/caption] ESSENTIAL OILS As wellness experts will tell you, essential oils can have a whole swag of benefits for your health and mind — and if you want to give them a whirl, there are excellent locally-made options online. Nunchi has game-changing products including a focus-boosting Chill Bill spray, a calming yoga blend and the signature No Mud, No Lotus spray — thought to encourage feelings of acceptance and resilience. Meanwhile, Sydney Essential Oil Co has been going strong for over two decades — to see why, check out its expansive offering of organic oils and blends, available to shop online. And alongside its well-known line of plant-based, natural skincare, Natio also has a wide array of signature essential oils, offering free Australia-wide shipping for orders over $59. [caption id="attachment_814443" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Manki Kim via Unsplash[/caption] A STASH OF QUALITY TEA Whack on the kettle, raid the pantry and cosy up with one of your favourite tea brews, or shake things up by trying something new from a top local producer. Sydney Tea will win you over with its selection of all-natural loose leaf teas. It's also got four different varieties of tea subscription packs to choose from. The husband-and-wife team behind T Totaler is also offering free delivery on orders over $30 from their hefty offering of tea over on the online store. Varieties include the like a coconut lemon splice green tea and an all-Aussie immunity-boosting blend. And you don't need to leave the house to get your mitts on some tasty treats from the Red Sparrow Tea Company, which ships beautiful blends all over Australia. [caption id="attachment_776058" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Natures Colours[/caption] PLANT LIFE Nothing can brighten a mood quite like a dose of lush, living greenery. A little boost of nature is sure to soothe the senses, plus it'll make your space that much more comfortable to chill in. And there are plenty of local companies who can have a new leafy mate sitting on your doorstep ASAP. Online retailer Plant Girl offers same-day Sydney delivery on its oft-changing lineup of low-maintenance plants and ceramics. The curated gift bundles are worth a look at, too. Natures Colours stocks a sprawling selection of potted plants, terrariums and succulent bowls to choose from. [caption id="attachment_745750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Unyoked, by Luisa Brimble[/caption] A FUTURE OFF-THE-GRID HOLIDAY Any isolation stint is better when there's a light at the end of the tunnel. So give yourself something great to look forward to and book 'future you' a nice off-the-grid getaway. If you want to stick with a mindful escape, start the search with Unyoked, which has a collection of tiny house stays located on secluded properties across Australia. Each micro-retreat features comfy amenities like bedding, a hot shower and a bar fridge, though you can look forward to being offline — and one with nature — for the duration of your stay. Your tiny house might be nestled by a wooded creek, perched on a working farm, or set high on a mountain overlooking rolling hills. Either way, you'll only find out the exact location after you book; which just adds to the excitement and anticipation. Top image: Kira Auf Der Heide via Unsplash
Sticking around in Sydney this Easter? There's plenty going on – from a buffet lunch at Sailmaker and a banquet at Toko to, of course, the Royal Easter Show. Now, we can tell you that Chiswick is hopping into the fun. Swing by the Woollahra restaurant anytime over the Easter weekend to feast on egg-cellent seafood dishes put together by Head Chef Samuel Rozsnyoi, including a whole John Dory with wakame, mussel butter and lemon – ideal for sharing. Also on the menu is a bunny-inspired cocktail. Dubbed the 24Carrot, it's a refreshing concoction of Grey Goose vodka and Aperol, sweetened with rambutan and kiwi, given a herby touch with chamomile, and finished off with lemon and a carrot curl. Plus, if you're celebrating with kids (or kid-ults), you can join in the community Easter egg hunt on Sunday morning. Chiswick's idyllic kitchen garden and grounds will be dotted with chocolate treats and Easter characters will be on hand to help with the search.
What's a Full Moon Crab Feast? It's a crustacean feast that's only happening on, you guessed it, full moon nights. There's a lot of debate about whether or not the best crab eating is during a full moon. We say, who cares? There's no reason to complain if you're chowing down on northern mud crab and Queensland spanner crab with one of Sydney's most beautiful ocean views. The two-course menu features boiled claws with spicy aioli; polenta croquettes; freshly cracked crab with chilli, saffron and olive; and sides like steamed potatoes, roasted crab oil and herbs. Yummy. Park yourself at the bar and enjoy the best of Australia's seafood. Don't wear white.
Ah, the annual festival of all things Italian — just when I thought I was out, they dragged me back in. Sunday, October 28 marks the day of celebration for the nation that brought us Julius Caesar, Prosecco and Dario Argento. This year's incarnation of the street fair is a special one though, as it's celebrating 32 years of the iconic exultation of Mediterranean multiculturalism. As per usual though, Norton Street will be lined with food vendors ranging from nonnas to professional culinary wizards. The big communal table will be back, and the Royal Hotel's verandah will be in full swing throughout the afternoon. There'll be entertainment, beverages, fashion and the Auto Festa, with as many Ferraris and Lambos as you can shake a cannoli at.
The QVB's second-level restaurant Esquire is serving up more than food and wine at its Sydney Solstice event. In fact, it's dishing up an evening that's set to go beyond the veil. At the venue's Smoke & Mirrors Wine Dinner, you and your friends will be whisked away and wow-ed by mentalist Andy Nunn and magicians Vincent Kuo and Adam Axford. Prepare to have your mind read before diving into a four-course menu of twice-roasted duck, slow-braised wagyu and a bombe alaska, all paired with local wines. Then, you'll get a second dose of dessert in the form of gravity-defying tricks. Image: Damian Flanagan
Somewhere, between the heady romantic drama of Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise trilogy and the good-natured bawdiness of the American Pie franchise, sit the films of Cédric Klapisch. Released in 2002, Spanish Apartment first introduced us to Xavier Rousseau (Romain Duris), a French university student on exchange in Barcelona. Four years later, Russian Dolls picked up with Xavier again, as he continued to search for love and direction in an increasingly complicated world. Chinese Puzzle turns the series into a trilogy, although Klapisch ensures the story is more or less accessible to newcomers. Now an author at the tail-end of his 30s, Xavier is marginally more mature than the last time we saw him, although no more lucky in the romance department. As a matter of fact, the film begins just in time for us to witness his marriage, to Englishwoman Wendy (Kelly Reilly), fall apart. When she takes their kids to live in Manhattan, Xavier decides to cross the Atlantic as well, crashing with his old friend Isabelle (Cécile de France) and her new girlfriend, Ju (Sandrine Holt), until he can find accommodation of his own. As with the previous films, Klapisch keeps the tone buoyant, livening Xavier's voiceover musings — on life, love, family, ageing and the cultural stewpot in which all of us are ingredients — with plenty of visual whimsy. Read our full review of Chinese Puzzle here. Chinese Puzzle is in cinemas on Thursday, April 17, and thanks to Transmission Films, we have ten double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=M2a8vuQABd8
We know. We've all done it. Home alone with a block of cheddar, a few scraps of brie and a lone Kraft Single. It all seemed so promising. When your mum/housemate/significant other returned, though, the truth became apparent. You'd made a cheese quagmire in your microwave, hadn't you? Hadn't you. Fortunately, the guys behind PappaRich, the ST Group, are now getting set to help you realise all of your cheese dreams without the weird kitchen smell three weeks later — they're bringing Malaysian chain Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart to Australia for the first time. With multiple stores in Kuala Lumpur and other areas of the country, the cheese tart connoisseurs will expand to open not one, but five Australian stores by the end of the year — four in Melbourne and one in Sydney. Their namesake is the cornerstone of their offering: a savoury-sweet three-cheese situation encased in a shortcrust shell, designed to be eaten either hot or cold. The cheese, while made with local produce, is based on the distinct taste and texture of the dairy products of Hokkaido. The Japanese island is known for their dairy — it produces half of Japan's total milk and a huge 90 percent of their natural cheese — and HBCT have worked tirelessly to replicate it. Malaysia has gone nuts for it; people have been queuing out the door to get their hands on one (or 12). If the popularity of Sydney's Uncle Tetsu Japanese cheesecakes is anything to go by, punters might do the same here too. For those of you interested in more than just shovelling ludicrous amounts of cheese and pastry down, the tarts themselves will apparently be "displayed like precious gems, much like an elegant high-end jewellery shop". We're waiting for a self-serve option that makes you feel like you're committing a diamond heist. Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart will launch from 11.30am on Saturday, December 10 at Melbourne Central, and December 17 at QV Melbourne, with Chadstone and Box Hill, as well as Sydney's World Square on dates TBC. For more info and to look out for an opening date, keep an eye on their Facebook page.
Eating locally is having a moment. Or maybe a movement. It seems like everyone from writer turned farmer Matt Evans to comedian Adam Hills is advocating the joys of eating local. By eating local we're talking about eating foods sourced within a certain geographic region — ideally one that doesn't rack up 70,000 kilometres of travel to get to you. That's the distance a basket of our 29 most common grocery items is said to have travelled in their quest to reach your hot little hands. Since the frozen berry recall in February this year, the buzz around eating locally sourced foods has grown even louder, with consumer advocacy group, Choice, adding their weight to a campaign for clearer country-of-origin labels. “The claim 'Made in Australia from local and imported ingredients' is anecdotally the most frustrating claim, as this tells you nothing about where the ingredients are from,” says Katinka Day, policy and campaigns advisor at Choice. “At the moment, there isn't much consumers can do if they are confused about the current labels. They can seek brands who are proactively putting more information about origin on their packs or join our campaign calling for better country of origin labelling.” With Australia being renowned for producing some of the best fruit and vegetables in the world, it also begs the question why we even need to import or eat frozen produce in the first place. According to Kelly Barlow, nutritionist, owner and cook at the Waterline Cafe in Little Bay, the reasons are manifold but it comes down to one thing: Australians have become too spoilt for choice. The granddaughter of Australian farmers, Kelly says most consumers have forgotten that once upon a time you couldn’t get blueberries (or bananas or watermelon or any other seasonal fruit or veg) every day of the year and stamping your foot because you couldn’t have your morning acai and blueberry smoothie wouldn’t have done you a jot of good. “We have an abundance of food in Australia and we can get everything we want nearly all the time. But because of that we end up wanting everything all the time and unfortunately we’ve forgotten the joy in seasonality,” says Kelly. YOU DON'T HAVE TO AVOID EVERYTHING THAT'S IMPORTED So does eating local mean farewelling tinned tuna because it comes all the way from Thailand? If you can't track down the exact tree, paddock or stream that your dinner has come from, does it make it bad? Barlow suggests the changes needn’t be so radical. Eating local isn’t about giving up all the conveniences of the modern world; it’s as simple as making more informed decisions about how we shop and eat. “I’m not saying supermarkets and packaged foods are bad; the convenience is great," says Barlow. "But check that what you’re buying is grown in Australia. You don’t have to shop at farmer’s markets, just be aware of where your food comes from.” Although Kelly uses foods sourced from across Australia and internationally, according to the nutritionist the key is in understanding each country’s growing and packaging standards. She suggests there are three key things consumers should think about when buying imported food: where does the food comes from, how was it manufactured and how was it transported into the country. “The issue with eating imported food from a health perspective isn’t the preserving technique or that a vegetable has been snap frozen," she says. "It’s more to do with how that food item was grown and how it’s stored and transported ... If the earth and soil where the produce is grown is different to what we have here, if they use different pesticides, if the country where the food is grown doesn’t have access to clean water or has different food handling standards, all these factors have an effect on the quality and safety of the food you’re eating.” BE READY TO ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FOOD YOU'RE EATING So where does this leave the average diner on a Friday night when country-of-origin food labelling is about as likely to feature on a restaurant menu as cassettes are to make a comeback? Chef Brendan Cato of The Farmed Table, a sustainable dining concept where all produce served is sourced or foraged by Brendan himself from a 30 kilometre radius of the venue, has some tips. “Consumers drive menus,” says Cato, who has previously worked at restaurants like Sean’s Panorama and whose pop-up dinners have featured at Bangbang Espresso Bar and Cafe in Surry Hills and Bondi Picnic in Bondi. Although most people might think a restaurant will find it off-putting to be quizzed about the food they use, Cato disagrees. “Read the menu, chefs who use locally sourced food will often highlight it and don’t be afraid to ask your waiter where the food comes and if it’s local.” TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT Diners who are willing to take a punt on lesser knowns foods will have a huge impact on the eating local movement and will probably give their tastebuds a surprise in the process. “When it comes to fish and seafood, for example, we love our salmon, tuna and snapper, but they’re not the most sustainable fish to eat all the time," says Cato, who also hosts a Fishy Business class at Work-Shop on the topic. “In fact, there are lesser known fish like leather jacket, trevally, sardines and garfish that are equally tasty and easier to source locally but that don’t get a look-in because we’re not prepared to give them a go ... Chefs don’t serve these type of fish because we don’t know about them and at the end of the day, they want to serve something that sells.” “The beauty of The Farmed Table is that diners don’t have a choice about what they eat,” he says, but adds that most people are often pleasantly surprised by the new foods they try. LEARN ABOUT SEASONAL FOODS AND AIM TO EAT SEASONAL WHERE POSSIBLE Although Brendan concedes that eating local food is easier when based in a produce-rich area like the NSW south coast, from where the chef hails, he suggests a slight attitude shift and a bit of good old common sense also play a part. “Start by understanding what’s in season, what grows in the summer and winter, and make food choices based on that. Take fruit, for example. In summer we get loads of berries and stone fruit; in the winter it's citrus and apples. If you’re not sure, just look online." “Even when you’re based in the city, you can eat local and seasonal quite easily," he adds. "There are local harvest collectives, groups of farmers that sell their produce direct to consumers, that can deliver seasonal food right to your door.” SHOP LOCAL TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WHERE THE FOOD YOU BUY When food shopping, Cato suggests adopting a stop and think approach and recommends striking up a conversation with your butcher, grocer or fishmonger to better understand where they source their produce. Even better, get out to a farmer’s market. “There’s no shortage of farmer's markets where you can talk directly with the growers. If they’ve grown most things, they’ll be upfront about how they’ve grown the food and can also tell you what’s in season.”
If you’re looking for an inspiring way to celebrate the International Women’s Day 40th Anniversary, head down to Sydney College of the Arts to see this variety of artistic engagements with official records, neglected artefacts, alternate documents and intergenerational passing on of memories. The exhibition features a time capsule created 10 years ago by Jane Polkinghorne and Anne Kay, who interviewed 100 Sydney-based artists in 2005 about their understanding of their art practice, a program of pioneering films made by women in the 1970s, a series of mother-daughter interviews and a day of free artist talks to book yourself into. This timely exhibition acts as a fascinating time-capsule of Australian contemporary art and is an important acknowledgement of the women who have contributed. Image: Art Calls with Tracey Moffatt.
If you don't mind waiting 97 minutes for a really cute little animation at closing credits, then check out Filth. If waiting annoys you, then give this one a miss. If you must see it, do yourself a favour and read the book first. That might help. Adapted from the acclaimed novel by iconic author Irvine Welsh, Filth falls short of even the most casual of expectations. Directed by Jon S. Baird from his own screenplay, Filth stars James McAvoy with a supporting cast including Jamie Bell, Jim Broadbent, Imogen Poots and Eddie Marsan. McAvoy is Bruce Robertson. He's a tormented, bigoted cop who snorts, smashes and sleazes his way through the festive period. What he really wants for Christmas is a promotion and he'll do whatever he needs to get it — screwing wives, exposing secrets and trampling self-esteems is all in a day's work. The problem is, well, just about everything. Take Bruce. There's no descent into despair, no spiral out of control, no ride for us to belt up for and settle in. When we meet him he's an asshole, and he stays an asshole, with a few tears and moments on stairs with understanding colleagues thrown in. I laughed twice, once about a boat and once because the c-word was very well-placed. The characters are half-baked and predictable — when the next line is in your head before its spoken then something has gone very wrong. Any aspect of Bruce's personality or past we're even vaguely interested in gets resolved in a lazy tell-all monologue revealing just what we had figured out 80 minutes and two buckets of popcorn ago. And this is no Trainspotting situation; the violence is lame and without context, the sex is nothing to hang your hat on, the madness is stereotyped and disjointed and there's next to no opportunity for us to even begin to understand any of the two-dimensional characters or why they do all the annoying things they do. Except for the little piggy, right at the end, who is not annoying, and is completely adorable. Filth gets one small point for the smashing soundtrack and the animation and McAvoy's beard, which is very neat and coped well with all the jaw clenching. https://youtube.com/watch?v=tymWDB7gtK4
You're probably well acquainted with the idea of farm-to-table dining. Now, it's time to get more of a taste of what the native Australian version looks like. Tweed Eco Cruises offers a hands-on food adventure through the mud crab-filled Terranora Lakes mangrove system, which is an ideal experience if you love crustacean. Led by Bundjalung Nation descendant Luther Cora, the tour teaches guests about First Nations hunting practices firsthand — yep, you will use bamboo spears to catch mud crabs, stingrays and fish, before enjoying the spoils cooked over a bonfire. The four-hour adventure continues with a boat ride through the oyster leases with plenty of freshly shucked snacks included, and concludes with a sumptuous seafood feast enjoyed with your fellow hunters. Image: Tweed Eco Cruises via Destination NSW
It's been one of the top spots for New Year's Eve for an age, it's found the ideal theme for a waterside celebration on the biggest night of the year, and it's sticking to it. Last year, Opera Bar turned itself into a big ol' beach party. This year, with its front row harbourside seat and recently tszujed fitout, the venue has announced plans for another heck of a NYE shindig. Sitting front and centre for the multimillion-dollar fireworks, Opera Bar's NYE party involves palm trees, glamorous beach attire and more canapes than you can poke a glow stick at. The whole party is beach-themed; think beach balls, beach huts, cabanas and umbrellas. No word as yet regarding the return of the astroturf dancefloor (yep, you read that correctly, an openair, astroturf dancefloor); however we can only live in hope. While you're making halfhearted new year's resolutions over flutes of bubbly, you can enjoy a five-hour canape package — yep, five hours of canapes. Think you can tear yourself away from the nosh to throw a few shapes beside Sydney Harbour? There'll be DJ sets Sydney's Ariane, Luen, Kato, and Martin Novosel of Purple Sneakers DJs fame, as well as a live performance from Cell Block 69. Tickets are $440+BF per person and includes express VIP entry to Sydney Opera House (so you don't have to join that huge line with the public) and that hectic five-hour canape package. Importantly, drinks aren't included in the ticket price, so bring bubbly money. Doors open at 6pm and the event runs to 2.30am — now that's a solid party. New Year's Eve at Opera Bar is happening on December 31 from 6pm. Tickets ($440+BF) are currently on sale from Opera Bar's website. Over 18s only, sorry kids.
There are art fairs – and then there is The Other Art Fair. The celebrated global event returns to Sydney for the fifth time this March. From March 14–17, the fair will showcase a lively collection of emerging artists in the stimulating surrounds of Eveleigh's creative hub, Australian Technology Park. Presented by Saatchi Art, this year's fair is bigger than ever before. The creative works of more than 120 carefully chosen artists, each selected by a prominent panel of art industry experts, will be up for sale. From the ornate to the inexpensive, The Other Art Fair 2019 offers thousands of artworks starting at as little as $100. Plus, all of the artists will be on-site, so you can chat with them and hear the stories behind your chosen piece. The vast four-day event is complemented by an eclectic array of art activations, workshops and immersive performances, plus street food and DJ sets. And good news, art-lovers — we've got a bunch of tickets to The Other Fair Sydney to give away. For the prize details, and to be in with a chance, see below. [competition]707414[/competition]
What a difference two years can make. For all the reasons we all know and have lived through, that's been the theme during since March 2020. Jump back to January that year and no one would've even dreamed that Australia's international borders would close for almost two years, for instance — or that getting swabbed for a respiratory virus would become a requirement for entering the country. The nation reopened its international borders to double-vaccinated travellers back in February 2022, so that's one step back to normality. Come Sunday, April 17, the COVID-19 testing requirement will be scrapped, too. At a press conference today, Friday, March 25, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt announced that the Commonwealth Government would no longer be renewing its biosecurity emergency determination — aka the legal implement that allows a number of our recent pandemic rules and restrictions to be put in place — which means that pre-departure testing for international travellers will cease. "The country is ready to move on from the emergency declaration made two years and one month ago. I will not be renewing the biosecurity emergency determination," said Hunt. "That's on strong advice from Professor Kelly [Professor Paul Kelly, Australia's Chief Medical Officer] and our other medical advisers; the unanimous advice that was given to me and discussed with the national security committee of cabinet," he advised. So, whether you're jetting off on an overseas getaway — perhaps to a spot like Bali that no longer has quarantine requirements for holidaying Aussies — or you've got friends and family who've been putting off visiting, it's all about to get easier. At the very least, it won't involved getting swabbed before you hop on a flight Down Under. Also, the prohibition on cruise lines operating out of Australia will lift as well — if that's the kind of trip you've been dreaming of. That said, testing requirements for other countries are obviously still up to them. As a result, wherever you're heading to — if international vacations now look much more enticing — may still have its own testing requirements. Proof of double-vaccination will still be required to enter Australia, and masks will remain mandatory on domestic and international flights. Australia will drop its pre-departure testing requirement for entering the country from overseas on Sunday, April 17. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
Josh Niland has had a busy few years. He opened his new Fish Butchery takeaway eatery in Waterloo, and announced that he will be taking over The Grand National Hotel while moving his signature restaurant Saint Peter into the space. Plus, he was named in the world's top 100 best chefs, won the James Beard Book of the Year Award and was listed among the world's 50 best next-generation hospitality leaders. If all this wasn't enough, he's still got time to do adventurous pop-ups around Sydney. His latest is a collaboration with Scotch whisky brand Talisker. Across two days in October, Niland will be heading up a culinary pop-up at a picturesque view-heavy North Head boathouse that is being erected at the Q Station in Manly. The Taste of Talisker series will take two forms across the two days — and the first will see Niland pull together a three-course meal paired with selections of whisky from 5.30pm on Friday, October 21. [caption id="attachment_870812" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Talisker and Saint Peter pop-up.[/caption] On this exclusive menu, you'll find four must-try dishes for any seafood enthusiast. Things will kick off with salt and vinegar garfish bathing in its own oil with Kamut sourdough for dipping and yoghurt-cultured butter. Form there, you'll be served coal-fried calamari cut into thin pasta-like pieces and paired with yellowfin tuna salami and a chilli oil — all combining to create a seafood dish reminiscent of a next-level spag bol. The headline dish is whole butterflied King George whiting complimented with a finger lime and tapioca sauce that will burst in your mouth. Tickets for the dinner will set you back $202 per person and are limited. The next day, on Saturday, October 22, there will be a $100 guided whisky tasting experience at the pop-up, accompanied by a range of paired bar snacks from Saint Peter. The lineup of bites hasn't been announced yet, but they're sure to feature Niland's signature brand of sustainable seafood delights. "I wanted to capture the wild spirit of the sea paired with key aromas of Talisker — smoke, spice and a sense of sea salt spray in the morning after a storm," said Niland. "Years of maturation made by the sea has lent a full flavour to this bold dram and this menu celebrates Talisker's rich flavours while honouring the sea in a sustainable and ethical way." [caption id="attachment_870810" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Talisker and Saint Peter pop-up.[/caption]
Often, when actors start expanding their wardrobe to include a musician hat, the world heaves a sigh. But Hugh Laurie is one of those annoying people who can do just about anything he turns his hand to. And do it so well that, having just watched an episode of House, we find ourselves jumping online, scouring YouTube for clips of him playing the blues. Or tango. Or several other forms of American music. The excellent news is that Laurie, his many talents and the Copper Bottom Band are soon to pack their respective bags and wing themselves our way. Between April 19 and May 5, they'll be singing, playing and joking their way around Australia, making appearances at seven major cities. Laurie was last here in 1981, but that was for a comedy show tour. "We're really excited to be coming to Australia to perform," he says. "The last time I was there was 1981, in a comedy show, and the world has changed a lot since then. I haven't though. I'm exactly the same. It's uncanny. Obviously, I'll be hoping to restore some national pride after the Ashes. If anyone throws anything at me, I'll lob up an easy catch to the balcony." If you're a Laurie fan, you might already know that his role as Dr Gregory House has won him two Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards, as well as six Emmy nominations. He's also gained cult status for his roles in Jeeves and Wooster, A Bit of Fry and Laurie (he and Fry are old buddies from Cambridge Uni) and Blackadder. All the while, he's been playing the blues behind the scenes. In fact, he started on the piano at the age of six. But it wasn't till 2011 that he teamed up with the Copper Bottom Band to release debut album Let Them Talk. Last year saw the launch of sophomore Didn't It Rain, which is a kind of history of the blues from New Orleans to the American heartland. Guests include soul vocalist Jean McClain and Guatemalan Gaby Moreno. Full tour dates below. Melbourne: Sat 19 April, Palais Theatre (Tickets through Ticketmaster) Canberra: Tue 22 April, Royal Theatre (Tickets through Ticketek) Adelaide: Thu 24 Apr, Thebarton Theatre (Tickets through Venuetix) Perth: Sat 26 Apr, Concert Hall (Tickets through Ticketek) Brisbane: Fri 2 May, Brisbane Concert Hall (Tickets through QTix) Newcastle: Sat 3 May, Civic Theatre (Tickets through Ticketek) Sydney: Mon 5 May, State Theatre (Tickets through Ticketmaster) https://youtube.com/watch?v=yYnJrluzbQY
One of the best interactive museums in Sydney, Powerhouse is frequently filled with colourful, immersive and mind-boggling exhibitions. It also hosts educational courses and workshops on topics such as astronomy, writing and computer coding. Until April 2018 it is hosting the vivid Future Park. Stretching across eight different interactive installations, Future Park is fuelled by human interaction, evolving in real time as visitors engage and leave their own mark on the artworks.
Classic flicks just keep making the leap to the stage, turning their big-screen tales into song-filled musical adaptations in the process. From 9 to 5 and Muriel's Wedding to Moulin Rouge! and Shrek, a hefty number of beloved movies have done just that — and now Adam Sandler's smash-hit film The Wedding Singer is joining them. The Wedding Singer: The Musical Comedy was originally due to hit Melbourne in June last year but, as we all know, the pandemic hit. Now, it's also heading to Sydney, playing the State Theatre from Thursday, July 1. When it does finally hit the stage locally, The Wedding Singer: The Musical Comedy will deliver an all-singing, all-dancing stage show based on its hilarious namesake 90s flick. And it's from the same crew that propelled it to sell-out success on Broadway and across the UK, including the writer of the original movie, Tim Herlihy. This one promises to yank you right into The Wedding Singer's 80s world of big hair and classic wedding bangers, thanks to a toe-tapping score that's sure to prompt a few hearty crowd singalongs. It retells the story of party-loving wedding singer and wannabe rock star Robbie Hart, who's left stranded at the altar at his own nuptials. Heartbroken, he sets out to destroy every other wedding he's a part of, until a chance encounter with a waitress: Drew Barrymore's character Julia. Now, he just has to win over the girl... and somehow put a stop to her own upcoming marriage along the way. If you need a refresher, you can watch the OG nostalgic film trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yjOXMTa6vA
Francophiles know there's something inherently romantic about the Parisian lifestyle, shown to us Aussies through countless rom-coms and years of Instagram pics of proposals by the Eiffel Tower. Everyone knows at least one person who has spent their winter months chasing the European sun, coming home with tales of wandering the streets of Paris looking for the perfect croissant and weekenders in the French countryside. Alas, it's not that time of year right now and you're (presumably) not in that part of the world either. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to embrace the French lifestyle and make the most of the spectacular Australian summer in your own backyard. We've partnered with French vodka Grey Goose, to show you how to live like a Parisian in your own city this summer. [caption id="attachment_697085" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Marcie Raw[/caption] START THE DAY WITH CROISSANTS Of course, one of the best things about being in Paris is strolling down to a market in the morning and carefully selecting a fresh croissant made from an old family recipe. The flaky, buttery treats are perfect for an easy brekkie on the go before a day of sightseeing or shopping, or perched in a window table with an espresso accompaniment. Thankfully, we've got some truly talented pastry chefs down in this part of the world, too. In Melbourne, you'll find internationally renowned croissants at Lune in Fitzroy and on Collins Street in the CBD; head to Flour and Stone in Woolloomooloo for some of Sydney's best pastries; while in Brisbane you can find scrumptious croissants all around town at Le Bon Choix. [caption id="attachment_753173" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr/Creative Commons/Tim Green[/caption] SIGN UP FOR A FRENCH LANGUAGE CLASS Parlez-vous francais? Non? True Parisians won't speak English if they don't have to, so why not sign up for a French language class this summer (or as your 2020 goal) and become a worldly bilingual? Alliance Francais — a network of not-for-profit organisations aimed at promoting French language and culture — has chapters in all capital cities and major regional hubs, which all run a bunch of different courses that will have you speaking like a Parisian in no time. If nightmares of your high school language classes still haunt you, it'll be comforting to know that Alliance Francais' classes are small and casual, and they run a variety of social events and workshops, such as Melbourne's weekly Vin and Fromage night. [caption id="attachment_737107" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Formaggi Ocello[/caption] GRAB LUNCH FROM A FROMAGERIE Cheese, but make it fancy. Surry Hills' Formaggi Ocello has Sydneysiders covered, with the cheese specialist stocking more than 200 varieties, from French classics to lesser-known imports, plus everything you need for a truly impressive cheese board. Pop in any time for a nibble and a tipple, sign up for one its monthly cheese and wine tasting nights or stop by from 4pm for an aperitif, where you get a free cheese tasting plate with your glass of wine. In Melbourne, La Parisienne Pates is a French deli that has been specialising in traditional smallgoods for more than 20 years. At its Carlton and South Yarra cafes, you'll find rare cheeses that you'd struggle to find elsewhere in Australia, plus gourmet charcuterie delicacies and French pastries made the old-fashioned way. Up in Brisbane, market favourite turned Morningside store Le Fromage Yard will help make all your cheese dreams come true. TAKE YOUR GREY GOOSE X MAISON LABICHE TOWEL TO THE BEACH In honour of the small celebrations we have in the summer, such as catching up with friends, and making the most of the outdoors, Grey Goose and French fashion label Maison Labiche have extended their annual Riviera collaboration into a collection of fashion and travel pieces to help you live in the moment this summer. There's also a limited-edition French Riviera-themed bottle of Grey Goose that you can buy. Our pick is the Maison Labiche beach towel. Take it to the beach or a park and (if permitted — check your local council websites) make a batched Grey Goose cocktail for a boozy afternoon in the sun. [caption id="attachment_742671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] So French So Chic[/caption] LISTEN TO THE LINEUP FOR SO FRENCHY SO CHIC There's nothing like a good soundtrack to get you in a particular mood, so cue up some French vibes by the stellar artists taking the stage at the upcoming So Frenchy So Chic festival in Melbourne and Sydney. Say hello to disco-electronica queen Corine, who channels the glamour artists of the Parisian nightclub scene of the 70s and 80s with an erotic spin that is all her own; bow down to French pop royalty Lou Doillon (the daughter of actor Jane Birkin and director Jacques Doillon) and her 2019 album Soliloquy; celebrate new wave cover band Nouvelle Vague's 15th year as a group; and fall in love with the soulful voice of Senegal-born French troubadour Tété. [caption id="attachment_753163" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr/Erin Stevenson O'Connor[/caption] CHALLENGE YOUR MATES TO A GAME OF PETANQUE Make the most of a warm summer day with a little friendly competition and embrace petanque like you're holidaying in Provence. If you're wondering what the difference is between petanque and other boules games like bocce, it's all in the name. Derived from an old expression, pes tancats, meaning 'feet planted' — petanque is for the truly lazy, as you keep your feet firmly on the ground. The St Kilda Petanque Club welcomes curious visitors at its weekly social gathering on Fridays at 5pm. In Sydney, the Boules Artistes Petanque Club hosts weekly social games in Kirribilli and Coogee, while the Brisbane Petanque Club welcomes novices at Kalinga Park. Or you can borrow Nan's boules set and hit the local park or beach and make it up as you go along. [caption id="attachment_526669" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Incu[/caption] PICK UP A MAISON BALZAC CANDLE FOR A SENSORY THROWBACK French-born and Sydney-based Elise Pioch had the right idea when she created Maison Balzac — she wanted to develop a product that would take her right back to her childhood. Short of creating a time machine, she achieved that goal with her range of candles, or "signature objects that evoke olfactory memories or experiences". You can pick up one of her luxurious candles — with scents inspired by mornings in the Mediterranean, long summer days on the beach, roses from Pioch's grandmother's garden and spiritual havens in the villages of France — from Incu in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. MAKE YOURSELF A LE GRAND FIZZ To really make it feel like you're on holiday, you need a cocktail. Level up your beverage game with something ice cold with a refreshing taste, and just a little more sophisticated than your usual savvy b. Thankfully, you don't need to go out and buy a full bartending kit and a heap of ingredients. All you need for the Le Grand Fizz (find the recipe, and others, here) is Grey Goose vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh limes and soda water. [caption id="attachment_751776" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Felix[/caption] TREAT YOURSELF TO A NIGHT OUT AT A FRENCH RESTAURANT Relive (or imagine) long afternoons that stretch into evenings, sipping wine and luxuriating over supper at a French bistro. There are plenty of spots around Australia serving authentic French food with all the trimmings — perfect for living like a Parisian on a night out this summer. Enjoy yellowfin tuna crudo at Felix or steak frites at Kittyhawk in Sydney, have oysters on the terrace at Entrecote or beetroot gazpacho Philippe in Melbourne, and sample the saucisson brioche at Montrachet or mille-feuille aux escargots at La Cache a Vin in Brisbane. Upgrade your summer by choosing premium vodka Grey Goose. Each bottle is distilled in France, and the high quality vodka has a 100-percent traceable production process, from crop to cork.
